The class comprised Herluf Trolle, Olfert Fischer and Peder Skram.

The ships were equipped with 2 shaft reciprocating engines, which were rated at 4,200 ihp (3,100 kW) and produced a top speed of 15.5 knots (28.7 km/h; 17.8 mph).

The main armament of the ships were two 9.4 in (24 cm) single gun turrets.

Herluf Trolle was laid down at the Copenhagen Navy Yard and launched on 1 January 1899.

Olfert Fischer was also laid down at Copenhagen Navy Yard and was launched on 1 January 1902.