$BTC Bitcoin ($BTC) is the world’s first and most well-known cryptocurrency, created in 2009 by an anonymous person or group known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized network called blockchain, where transactions are recorded publicly and can't be altered. Unlike traditional currencies, Bitcoin isn't controlled by any central bank or government. People can use it for peer-to-peer payments or as a store of value. Its supply is limited to 21 million coins, making it deflationary. Over time, Bitcoin has gained popularity as "digital gold" and is widely accepted in the crypto space for trading, investing, and payments.