$BTC
**Bitcoin** is the first and most famous cryptocurrency in the world, launched in 2009 by an anonymous person or group under the pseudonym **Satoshi Nakamoto**. Bitcoin is based on **Blockchain** technology, which is a decentralized digital ledger that records all transactions securely and transparently.
### The most important characteristics of Bitcoin:
1. **Decentralization**: Bitcoin is not controlled by any government or central institution, but is managed by a network of users.
2. **Limited supply**: The maximum number of Bitcoins that can be mined is only 21 million units, making it a rare currency.
3. **Encryption**: Bitcoin uses strong encryption techniques to secure transactions and create new units.
4. **Global use**: Bitcoin can be sent and received anywhere in the world without the need for an intermediary such as banks.
### Uses of Bitcoin:
- **Money Transfer**: Bitcoin can be used to send money quickly and at a lower cost compared to traditional methods.
- **Investment**: Many consider Bitcoin an investment asset due to its price fluctuations and the potential for large profits.
- **Commerce**: Some stores and companies accept Bitcoin as a means of payment.
