Bitcoin (BTC)
Fact sheet · reviewed October 26, 2026
Bitcoin is the first cryptocurrency: digital money with a fixed limit of 21 million coins, secured by proof-of-work mining and run by no company or government. It launched in 2009 and is by far the largest cryptocurrency by value.
Key facts
| Launched | January 3, 2009 |
|---|---|
| Created by | Satoshi Nakamoto (pseudonym) |
| How it's secured | Proof of work (SHA-256 mining) |
| Maximum supply | 21,000,000 BTC |
| Already issued | More than 20 million (the 20 millionth was mined in March 2026) |
| New blocks | About every 10 minutes |
| Block reward | 3.125 BTC (since April 2024); next halving expected around 2028 |
| Smallest unit | 1 satoshi = 0.00000001 BTC |
| Ways to invest besides coins | US spot Bitcoin ETFs since January 2024 |
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What it's used for
Mostly as a long-term store of value ("digital gold") and for speculation, plus cross-border payments and, in some countries, everyday payments. Faster, cheaper small payments can use the Lightning Network, a layer built on top of Bitcoin.
How it works
Miners compete to add a block of transactions roughly every 10 minutes; the winner earns new bitcoins and fees. Every node checks every block, so no one can spend coins they don't have. Read the full beginner's guide to Bitcoin and how mining works.
Risks to know
- Price swings: Bitcoin has fallen more than 70% from its peak several times. Most recently it fell about 50% from its October 2025 record during 2026.
- Lost keys or a lost seed phrase mean lost coins; there's no reset.
- Scams often ask victims to pay in bitcoin, including through Bitcoin ATMs.
- Energy use and changing regulation remain debated.
Buying and storing it
If you decide to buy, use a regulated exchange you reach directly, check fees with the true cost calculator, and store long-term holdings in a wallet you control. Read how to buy crypto safely. This page isn't a recommendation to buy.
Questions
Who controls Bitcoin?
No one. Changes to its rules need broad agreement from the people running the software.
Can I buy less than one bitcoin?
Yes. You can buy a few dollars' worth, measured in satoshis.
Where to next
Sources
Facts checked against the sources listed, as of October 26, 2026. Educational only; not financial advice.