Stack’s Bowers Offers $1 Million Norwegian Ultra-Rarity in L.E. Bruun Collection Auction

Stack’s Bowers Galleries has launched one of the most important Scandinavian coin sales in recent years. The March 2026 L. E. Bruun Collection , A Corpus of Scandinavian Numismatics, Part IV auction features more than 500 certified coins, tokens, and medals.

Even more compelling, bidding is already underway. Session 1 closes on March 24, while Session 2 concludes on March 25.

A Potential $1 Million Norwegian Rarity Headlines the Sale

At the center of the auction stands an extraordinary coin. The Norway (1661) 10 Ducat – Fort Aggershus, graded NGC AU Details (Session 2, lot 18103), carries an estimate of €600,000 to €800,000 (about $699,000 to $932,000).

However, its importance goes far beyond price.

Experts believe this coin is unique in private hands. Only two other examples exist. The Danish government holds one, while a Norwegian university preserves the other.

A Coin That Celebrates Royal Power

The design tells a powerful story.

On the obverse appears Frederik III, who ruled Denmark and Norway from 1648 to 1670. He gained widespread support after defending Copenhagen from a Swedish siege in 1659. As a result, he transformed Denmark’s monarchy from elective to absolute.

Meanwhile, the reverse depicts Akershus Fortress in Oslo. In 1661, this site hosted the ceremony that formalized Frederik III’s new authority.

Additional Frederik III Gold Rarities Expected to Shine

The sale also includes several major gold issues tied to Frederik III. Many carry six-figure estimates.

One standout is the Denmark 1664 10 Ducat, graded NGC AU Details (Session 1, lot 17074). It is estimated at €150,000 to €200,000 (about $175,000 to $233,000).

Notably, the coin weighs more than one ounce. At the time of issue, it represented immense wealth. Researchers believe the piece was struck for the king’s personal use.

Danish West Indies Coins Add Historical Depth

Because the auction takes place in New York City, Stack’s Bowers included coins from the Danish West Indies, now known as the U.S. Virgin Islands.

These selections add both historical and geographic relevance.

Highlights include:

• Danish West Indies 1904 10 Daler, graded NGC MS 68 (lot 18044), estimated at €35,000+ (about $40,000)
• Denmark 1749 VH West Indies Co. 2 Ducat, graded NGC MS 63 (lot 17126), estimated at €20,000+ (about $23,000)
• Danish West Indies (1850) 25 Cents counterstamped on a U.S. 1849 Quarter, graded NGC MS 63 (lot 18034), estimated at €35,000+ (about $17,000)

The Legacy of the L. E. Bruun Collection

This remarkable collection traces back to Lars Emil Bruun, a Danish entrepreneur who built his fortune in butter and real estate.

Over time, he assembled one of the most comprehensive Scandinavian numismatic holdings ever formed.

NGC certified the collection. Each coin features a special label that highlights the prestigious Bruun pedigree.

Importantly, this auction continues a landmark series.

In September 2024, the first sale achieved a record. A Denmark 1496 Noble, graded NGC AU 55, realized €1.2 million (about $1.33 million). That result set a new benchmark for any Scandinavian coin.

So far, more than 6,300 coins, medals, and tokens from the Bruun Collection have entered the market.

Collectors can also explore high-resolution images through NGC’s searchable online gallery.

Additional High-Value Highlights

Beyond the headline lots, the auction includes numerous elite rarities:

• Undated 2 Ducat, graded NGC MS 66★ (Session 1, lot 17085), €150,000–€200,000 ($175,000–$233,000)
• Norway 1678 PG 4 Speciedaler, graded NGC XF Details (Session 2, lot 18111), €150,000–€200,000 ($175,000–$233,000)
• Denmark 1653 5 Ducat, graded NGC MS 62 (Session 1, lot 17066), €100,000–€130,000 ($116,000–$151,000)
• Denmark 1663 10 Ducat, graded NGC AU Details (Session 1, lot 17072), €110,000–€130,000 ($128,000–$151,000)
• Denmark 1592 5 Ducat, graded NGC AU Details (Session 1, lot 17041), €90,000–€110,000 ($105,000–$128,000)
• Denmark 1659 5 Ducat, graded NGC AU 55 (Session 1, lot 17069), €80,000–€100,000 ($93,000–$116,000)
• Norway 1678 PG 3 Speciedaler, graded NGC AU Details (Session 2, lot 18112), €80,000–€120,000 ($93,000–$140,000)
• Denmark 1870 NC//CS 2 Christian d’Or, graded NGC MS 69 (lot 17227), €30,000–€40,000 ($35,000–$46,000)
• Denmark 1911 VBP GJ 20 Kroner, graded NGC MS 68+ (lot 17275), €6,000–€7,000 ($7,000–$8,000)

A Defining Moment for Scandinavian Numismatics

Taken together, this auction represents a defining moment.

Rare Scandinavian gold coins seldom appear in such depth. Even more, the Bruun pedigree adds historic weight. As a result, collectors and institutions alike are watching closely.

With a potentially unique Norwegian 10 Ducat leading the way, this sale could reshape the market once again.