$BTC Among all asset classes, Bitcoin has had one of the more volatile trading histories. The cryptocurrency's first significant price increase occurred in October 2010 when the value of a single bitcoin started moving past its long flat price of less than $0.10.
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Table of Contents
Cryptocurrency
Bitcoin's Price History
By
John Edwards
Updated January 23, 2025
Reviewed by Julius Mansa
Fact checked by
Suzanne Kvilhaug
Part of the Series
Bitcoin Price Guide

Investopedia / Madelyn Goodnight
Among all asset classes, Bitcoin has had one of the more volatile trading histories. The cryptocurrency's first significant price increase occurred in October 2010 when the value of a single bitcoin started moving past its long flat price of less than $0.10.1
The cryptocurrency has experienced several massive rallies and spectacular crashes since it first became available. This article offers insight into Bitcoin's volatile history and some reasons why its price acts the way it does.
Key Takeaways
Since it was first introduced, Bitcoin has had a choppy and volatile trading history.
Bitcoin was designed to be used as currency in daily transactions.
While Bitcoin is a cryptocurrency, investors have also used it to store value and to hedge against inflation and market uncertainty.
Bitcoin's price is a product of supply, demand, and market sentiment.
