Bitcoin
The first cryptocurrency, launched in 2009, running on a proof-of-work blockchain with a supply capped at 21 million coins and issuance that halves roughly every four years.
Also called BTC
The first cryptocurrency, launched in 2009, running on a proof-of-work blockchain with a supply capped at 21 million coins and issuance that halves roughly every four years.
Why it matters
Its fixed supply schedule is the feature most often cited by holders, and it is enforced by software rules that participants agree to run.
Related terms
- Halving
- Proof of Work
- Satoshi
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Self-Custody
Holding your own keys rather than leaving assets with an exchange or custodian.
DeFi
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Stablecoin
A token designed to hold a steady value against a reference, usually the US…
Layer 2
A network built on top of a base blockchain that processes transactions separately and…
Smart Contract
A program stored on a blockchain that runs automatically when its conditions are met,…