The 1849 Constitution pen
In 1849, Frederik VII signed the first Danish Constitution – using this very pen
The Danish Constitution and the end of absolutism
Frederik VII signed the Danish Constitution into law on 5 June 1849. As a result, during his own time, Frederik VII was regarded as the king who gave Denmark its democratic system of governance. However, credit is equally due to his father, Christian VIII. Before his death, he asked his son to give the Kingdom of Denmark its first constitution when he became king.
The Constitution pen – one of the many objects in the Royal Danish Collection
The 1849 Constitution pen is one of the many objects in the Royal Danish Collection. You can see the pen at Rosenborg Castle, where it is on display in the room named after Frederik VII. Although Frederik VII never resided at Rosenborg Castle, the room is named after him because it is decorated with personal belongings and official objects from the time of his reign.
Naturally, the display in this room includes the pen that he used to sign the Danish Constitution. The 1849 Constitution replaced the Danish Act of Succession of 1665, which was the legal basis of the absolute monarchy in Denmark. The Danish Act of Succession of 1665, also known as Lex Regia, is also on display at Rosenborg Castle. You find it in the castle’s underground Treasury.