How many Bitcoins are there?

Bitcoin has a fixed maximum supply capped at 21 million coins. This limit is hardcoded into the Bitcoin protocol to ensure scarcity, similar to precious metals like gold.

Current Circulation

As of now, approximately 19.5 million Bitcoins have already been mined and are in circulation. The remaining Bitcoins will be gradually released over time through the mining process, but at a decreasing rate due to the halving events that occur roughly every four years.

Why the Limit?

• The 21 million cap was introduced by Bitcoin’s creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, to prevent inflation and maintain value over time.
• This fixed supply contrasts with fiat currencies, which can be printed in unlimited amounts by governments.

Mining and Halving

• Bitcoins are released as rewards to miners who validate transactions and secure the network.
• Every 210,000 blocks mined (~4 years), the reward halves, reducing the number of new BTC created.
• The last Bitcoin is expected to be mined around the year 2140.

Summary Table