Unfunded 2012 Casascius "Bitnickel" 5 Bitcoin (BTC). Series 1 and Series 2 Type. Nickel Plated Brass. 28.5 mm. MS-66 (PCGS).

This is an unfunded and non-active cryptocurrency coin that is not loaded with any cryptocurrency. Nonetheless, it remains an exciting opportunity to own this large denomination issue with a face value of 5 BTC. The surfaces display satiny luster and a blend of pewter-gray and platinum-white coloration depending on the lighting. Interestingly, the weakness at the motto VIRES IN NUMERIS on the obverse is seen on virtually all examples from these series. An Unfunded MS-65 example sold for $4,800 in our April 2022 sale and we expect even stronger interest in this Superb Gem MS-66 example. We also had the pleasure of selling a Loaded example in our August 2022 sale which sold for $132,000 and set a new record for the most valuable crypto coin ever sold by our firm. According to researcher Elias Ahonen, the Series 1 Casascius 5 BTC funded coins were released in January 2012 with an issue price of 6 BTC, amounting to around US$33 at the time. They were initially released with a gold-colored hologram but a silver-colored hologram was introduced for Series 2 circa April 2012. Mike Caldwell, the creator of the Casascius series, eventually released an unreported quantity of unfunded "bitnickel" planchets for enthusiasts to fund on their own. This example can likely be traced back to this later release.

PCGS# 896688.

PCGS Population: 2; none finer.

*Loaded cryptocurrency coins will be reserved at their intrinsic cryptocurrency value on the day of the sale. Lots realizing $25,000 or more will be delivered via armored carrier ONLY. An additional shipping charge of five hundred dollars [$500] will be applied to domestic armored carrier deliveries, with additional fees for remote and international deliveries. Winning bidders may also pay their invoice via BitPay for a 1% fee after authorization by Stack’s Bowers Galleries prior to the sale. Additional terms and conditions apply.