The Bitcoin network has produced its 20 millionth coin, leaving just one million BTC remaining before the digital asset reaches its fixed supply cap of 21 million.
At current issuance levels, roughly 450 new Bitcoin are mined each day, although the rate is reduced every four years through the protocol’s built-in halving mechanism.
“The market is about to experience something new: A global asset with almost no new supply left,”
Said David Eng in a post on X.
The final Bitcoin is expected to be mined around 2140, meaning the remaining supply will enter circulation gradually over the next century under the network’s predetermined issuance schedule.
Supporters say Bitcoin’s transparent and limited supply strengthens its appeal compared with traditional currencies that can be expanded by central banks.
“A digital money system with transparent, predictable, and ultimately scarce supply... has rising appeal in today’s economy due to fiat currency tail risks,”
Said Grayscale Investments in earlier research.
Some analysts said the milestone is unlikely to affect the market immediately, with Charles Edwards arguing that Bitcoin’s predictable supply schedule is already well understood and priced into the market.
At the time of reporting, Bitcoin price was $68,676.06.