$BTC, or Bitcoin, is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by the anonymous figure Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized blockchain network, allowing peer-to-peer transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks. Bitcoin is often referred to as "digital gold" due to its limited supply of 21 million coins, making it a popular hedge against inflation. $BTC has revolutionized finance by introducing the concept of decentralized money and has inspired the creation of thousands of other cryptocurrencies. It remains a dominant force in the crypto market, valued for its security, transparency, and long-term potential.