Rare Norwegian coins: Norway’s most valuable dates and types
Which Norwegian coins are the rarest, and why? From Olav Kyrre's pennies and the archbishop's skillings to the Schydtz coins of 1689…
1 øre
A Norwegian 1 øre in bronze dated 1952, struck under King Haakon VII and in choice mint state. The coin is photographed, described with its own protocol number and guaranteed genuine.
About 1 øre
Norway’s smallest coin
The 1 øre was introduced in 1876 and is the smallest coin of the Norwegian krone. It is struck in bronze, weighs 2 grams and measures 16 mm. Under Oscar II it shows the crowned lion on a shield, and from 1908 Haakon VII’s crowned monogram in a ring, with three-legged triskelion ornaments around the value on the reverse.
Iron, bronze and the squirrel
During the First World War the 1 øre was struck in iron (1918–1921), and again during the German occupation (1941–1945), then without the royal crown and monogram. In 1952 a new Haakon VII type appeared with the date divided by the monogram, and the year 1952 is recorded for both the old and the new type. Olav V’s 1 øre with a squirrel was struck in 1958–1972, and Norges Bank lists it as no longer valid from 1 January 1975.
What to look for
Small bronze coins in mint state with original colour are much scarcer than worn ones. Look for even surfaces without spots or cleaning. More denominations are found under Norway after 1874.
Frequently asked questions
When was the 1 øre discontinued?
The last 1 øre coins were struck in 1972 under Olav V. According to Norges Bank they have not been legal tender since 1 January 1975.
Why are some Norwegian 1 øre coins made of iron?
Copper was short during both world wars. The 1 øre was struck in iron in 1918–1921 and again in 1941–1945.
Are the items genuine?
Yes. Every item is researched and described as accurately as possible, and Denarius guarantees that everything sold is genuine and as described.
What is the protocol number?
Every item gets its own number when it is catalogued. The number is shown on the product page, so you always know exactly which example it is.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship worldwide. Shipping method and price are shown at checkout before you pay.
Read more
Articles about 1 øre
What are old Norwegian coins worth? Price guide and rare dates
Most old Norwegian coins are worth little, but condition, silver, gold and rare dates can command high prices. Here is the price…
Norwegian coins: a collector’s guide
A thousand years of Norwegian coins in one guide: the main periods, kings and mints, how grading works in Norway, and how…