Bitcoin is scarce because it has a maximum supply of 21 million Bitcoin. Unlike dollars, no one can print more Bitcoin.
Maximum Supply
21 Million
Fixed forever
Source: Bitcoin Whitepaper →
Already Mined
95.4%
20.0 million
Source: Blockchain.com →
No One Can Print More
The 21 million cap was set by Bitcoin's creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. This limit was chosen to introduce scarcity, similar to precious metals like gold. Unlike regular money, no one can print more Bitcoin and cause inflation in the Bitcoin system — not even the creator.
Bitcoin
21 Million
(21,000,000)
Fixed forever
Source: Bitcoin Whitepaper →
US Dollar
19.4 Trillion
(19,400,000,000,000)
And counting...
Source: FRED M1 →
Mining & Halving
New Bitcoin are created through a process called mining. Miners use "proof of work" — computers put in lots of effort to create Bitcoin and confirm transactions. This is like digital hard work.
The reward miners receive is halved approximately every four years — an event known as the "halving." This gradual reduction ensures the total supply will never exceed 21 million.
Last Bitcoin Mined
~2140
Over 100 years from now
Source: Bitcoin Block Half →
After That?
Still Works
Transaction fees keep it running
Source: Bitcoin Whitepaper →
Verified by Everyone
The Bitcoin blockchain records all transactions and is maintained by a network of computers (called nodes) all around the world. These nodes make the 21 million supply cap transparent and verifiable — no one can break the rules.