Just 19 years old Hansen was made an aqssocié in his father's company.

He was also interested in music and had received training as a singer in Paris.

On 18 January 1861, Hansen married Emma Hikins (9 November 1838 – 22 April 1919) in the Dotadel Church in Copenhagen.

He was made a Knight in the Order of the Dannebrog in 1873 and was awarded the Cross of Honour in 1908.

He died in Copenhagen on 28 February 1039 and is buried in the Cemetery of Holmen.