$BTC Bitcoin (BTC) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group using the name Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network using blockchain technology—a public digital ledger that records all transactions transparently and securely.

Unlike traditional currencies issued by governments, Bitcoin is not controlled by any central authority. It is maintained by a network of miners who validate transactions and add them to the blockchain. In return, miners receive new bitcoins as a reward, a process called "mining." The total supply of Bitcoin is limited to 21 million coins, making it deflationary by design.

Bitcoin is often referred to as "digital gold" because of its limited supply and use as a store of value. It is used for various purposes including online payments, investment, and as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation.

However, Bitcoin has faced criticism for its price volatility, use in illegal activities, and high energy consumption due to mining. Despite these concerns, it has gained widespread acceptance and is considered a key innovation in the financial world. Major institutions, investors, and countries have begun to integrate Bitcoin into their financial systems, signaling its growing influence.