Detail Summary
Event Disappearing Satoshi statue (a faceless, semi‑transparent sculpture of Satoshi Nakamoto by Valentina Picozzi) vanished overnight from Parco Ciani, Lugano, Switzerland. The theft was publicly reported on August 3, 2025.
Reward Satoshigallery has announced a 0.1 BTC bounty (≈ $11,400 at current rate) for information leading to the statue's recovery.
Statue overview Made of stainless steel and corten blocks, the artwork “disappears” when viewed from the front or rear—designed to signifying Satoshi’s anonymity. The artist spent 18 months developing the concept and 3 months building it. Unveiled in October 2024 during Lugano’s Plan ₿ Forum.
Response & symbolism Satoshigallery posted:
> “You can steal our symbol but you will never be able to steal our souls… We are all in this together”
The incident has stirred debate about public art security and Lugano’s identity as a pioneering crypto‑friendly city.
🧠 Why this matters
Cultural symbol: Installed as part of Lugano’s Bitcoin City branding and blockchain tourism strategy, the statue quickly became a community focal point.
Public vs. Secure: Its location in an open park invites visitors—but also leaves it vulnerable to theft.
Global project resilience: Though one piece is missing, Satoshigallery vows to continue installing replicas across the 21‑city network.
Community ties: Local authorities have opened an investigation; crypto‑enthusiasts are mobilizing online, urging anyone with tips or footage to come forward.
💸 Current BTC value
0.1 BTC is currently worth around $11,395 USD, underscoring the seriousness of the offer.
🔍 What to watch
1. Surveillance tip‑offs: Footage from nearby cameras or dumps of lakeside Parco Ciani could hold clues.
2. Satoshigallery updates: Watch their posts on X (formerly Twitter) for lead verification or extended support commitments.
3. City transparency: Will Lugano invest in better protection or relocate other statues after this incident?
4. Replications across network: Watch how quickly El Salvador, Tokyo, or other cities receive or install their statues—this case may prompt extra security.
🎯 Takeaway
The disappearance of the Satoshi statue in Lugano is more than vandalism—it’s a provocative loss of a cultural artifact representing Bitcoin’s elusive creator. With a hefty 0.1 BTC reward, a committed global art network, and rising public attention, this story is evolving fast. Whether it’s reclaimed or inspires a digital homage, it highlights how crypto culture continues to challenge and expand the boundaries between the physical and symbolic realm.
Let me know if you'd like ongoing updates, local art data, or photos & maps of other crypto‑themed public art installations.