$BTC (Bitcoin) is the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, launched in 2009 by an anonymous creator known as Satoshi Nakamoto. It operates on a decentralized, peer-to-peer blockchain network, allowing users to send and receive value without intermediaries like banks. Bitcoin is often called “digital gold” due to its limited supply of 21 million coins and use as a store of value. It uses proof-of-work mining to secure the network and validate transactions. $BTC has influenced the creation of thousands of cryptocurrencies and is widely used for trading, investing, remittances, and as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainty.