$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is the original and most widely recognized cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by the pseudonymous creator Satoshi Nakamoto. It introduced blockchain technology as a decentralized ledger, allowing users to send and receive value globally without relying on centralized institutions like banks. With a fixed maximum supply of 21 million coins, Bitcoin is often viewed as a hedge against inflation and a form of “digital gold.” It operates on a proof-of-work consensus mechanism, where miners validate transactions and secure the network. Over time, Bitcoin has evolved from a niche digital currency into a major financial asset, attracting interest from retail users, institutional investors, and governments worldwide.