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What Is PAX Gold (PAXG)? How to Buy Tokenized Gold With Cash at Bitstop ATMs

PAX Gold (PAXG) is a digital asset backed 1:1 by investment-grade physical gold. Each PAXG token represents one fine troy ounce of London Good Delivery gold stored in LBMA-accredited vaults in London. PAXG combines the benefits of physical gold ownership with the speed, security, and flexibility of blockchain technology.

Unlike traditional gold ETFs or futures, owning PAXG means holding a digital token directly tied to physical gold, giving users both the stability of a centuries-old asset and the utility of modern crypto.

Why People Choose PAXG

  • Fully backed by physical gold (London Good Delivery gold)
  • Redeemable for gold or cash through approved partners
  • Built on Ethereum (ERC-20 standard), making it widely compatible with wallets and DeFi platforms
  • Audited regularly to ensure full reserve backing and regulatory transparency
  • Low storage costs compared to physical gold ownership

Whether you’re hedging against inflation, diversifying your crypto portfolio, or just want gold exposure without the hassle, PAXG offers a trusted solution.

How to Buy PAXG With Cash at Bitstop ATMs

  1. Find a Bitstop ATM
    Use our ATM Locator to find a participating machine near you.
  2. Tap “Buy” and Select PAXG
    Choose PAXG from the list of available cryptocurrencies.
  3. Verify Your Identity
    If purchasing over regulatory thresholds, scan your government-issued ID.
  4. Scan Your Wallet
    Open your preferred ERC-20 compatible wallet (like Exodus) and scan the QR code.
  5. Insert Cash
    Insert your desired amount. The screen will show the exchange rate and the amount of PAXG you’ll receive.
  6. Confirm and Send
    Once approved, your PAXG is sent directly to your wallet. Done in minutes.

Why Cash-to-PAXG Access Matters

Not everyone has access to investment accounts, banking apps, or gold brokers. Bitstop bridges that gap, offering everyday investors access to tokenized gold in the form of PAXG.

Now you can turn your cash into gold-backed crypto at thousands of Bitstop ATMs across the U.S.

  • No brokerage account needed
  • No complex setup
  • No waiting period

Just scan your wallet, insert cash, and own tokenized gold in minutes.

Store PAXG Securely

We recommend using a non-custodial wallet like Exodus, which gives you full control of your tokenized gold. Since PAXG lives on Ethereum, make sure your wallet supports ERC-20 tokens.

With PAXG in your wallet, you can:

  • Hold it as a long-term hedge
  • Transfer it globally, 24/7
  • Use it in DeFi platforms to earn yield

Your gold, your terms, powered by blockchain.

PAXG vs Physical Gold

FeaturePAX Gold (PAXG)Physical Gold
Backing1 oz of physical goldGold bar or coin
StorageDigitally stored, low costPhysical vault or safe
TransferabilityGlobal, 24/7In-person, limited
DivisibilityHighly divisibleLimited
Purchase MethodWith cash at Bitstop ATMsBroker, exchange, jewelry

Buy Gold, Without the Middlemen

Gold has always been a store of value. Now, with PAXG and Bitstop, you can access it instantly, without the banks, brokers, or paperwork.

Explore the future of gold ownership today. Visit a Bitstop ATM near you and discover how easy it is to buy PAXG with cash.

Ready to Buy PAXG With Cash?

Want to know the hours of your closest Bitstop? Visit our Bitcoin ATM locator to browse by zip code, city, or simply use the map to find the nearest machine. You’ll see hours of operation, directions, supported transaction types, and you can even filter by coin to find the exact crypto you’re looking to buy.

Download the Bitstop App

Make your PAX Gold (PAXG) experience even smoother:

  • Track your transactions in real time
  • Find nearby crypto ATMs using one of the most trusted and comprehensive maps in crypto
  • Access your account with ease
  • Get notified about deals, offers, and price changes

Before you go, use the app to verify ATM hours and limits so you are ready to complete your transactions without delays. At Bitstop, we don’t just make it easy to buy Bitcoin and crypto. We reward you for it. Through our in-app Rewards Center, you can:

  • Earn coupons for future transactions
  • Unlock badges as you hit new milestones
  • Complete challenges for exclusive perks

Whether you’re new to crypto or a seasoned buyer, the Bitstop App helps you stay informed, connected, and rewarded every step of the way.

👉 Download the Bitstop App

How to Compare USDC vs. USDT and Buy With Cash

Stablecoins like USDC and USDT are designed to maintain price stability while giving users access to the speed and flexibility of crypto. Whether you’re just getting started or already buying crypto with cash at a Bitstop ATM, understanding how these two stablecoins differ helps you navigate your options confidently.

What Is a Stablecoin?

Stablecoins are digital currencies backed by real-world assets like U.S. dollars or short-term treasury bonds. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, they’re not meant to fluctuate in value. Instead, they act as a stable bridge between traditional money and the crypto economy, useful for fast transactions, cross-border payments, and storing value without volatility.

How to Choose Between USDC and USDT?

USDC (USD Coin)

USDC is issued by Circle and Coinbase. It’s fully backed 1:1 by U.S. dollars and short-term U.S. treasuries held in regulated banks.

  • Transparency: Undergoes regular third-party audits
  • Compliance: Operates under U.S. financial regulations
  • Best For: Users who prioritize regulation, long-term stability, and full reserve visibility

USDT (Tether)

USDT is the largest and most widely used stablecoin globally. It’s backed by a mix of reserves, though less transparent than USDC.

  • Liquidity: High trading volume and exchange availability
  • Speed: Supports fast transactions on many blockchains (Ethereum, TRON, Solana)
  • Best For: Users who prioritize liquidity and quick access to funds over regulatory structure

Which Stablecoin Is Right for You?

  • Choose USDC if you want transparency and stability from a regulated source.
  • Choose USDT if you value deep liquidity and speed for active trading.

Each offers different trade-offs in terms of transparency, liquidity, and use cases. With Bitstop, you can buy directly with cash and then store it in a secure crypto wallet that fits your needs. When you use Bitstop, you’re already taking a step toward more control, choice, and convenience in your crypto journey.

How to Buy USDC or USDT With Cash at a Bitstop ATM

Buying stablecoins at a Bitstop ATM is just as easy as buying Bitcoin or Dogecoin. The process is identical, you’ll just choose USDC or USDT. Here’s how to get started:

Here’s how to get started:

1. Visit a Bitstop ATM – Use our ATM locator to find the closest machine.

2. Tap “Buy” – Select the cryptocurrency you’d like to purchase: ETH, Bitcoin, DOGE, or others (based on availability).

3. Enter Your Phone Number – You’ll receive a text message with a temporary code. Enter it on the machine.

4. Set Up Your Account PIN – This PIN keeps your Bitstop account secure for future visits.

5. Scan Your Government-Issued ID – Hold your ID up to the scanner so the system can verify your identity. *Only required if you’re purchasing over $2,999, or over $1,000 in Arizona or New Mexico.

6. Scan Your Bitcoin Wallet – Open your wallet app, tap Receive, and scan the QR code into the machine. *Make sure your wallet address is accurate; crypto transactions are final.

7. Insert Cash – Insert bills just like you would at a regular ATM. The screen will display:

  • The exchange rate
  • The amount of crypto you’ll receive

*Limits may vary by location. For the most accurate information, create a Bitstop account.

8. Confirm and Send – Once reviewed, tap Send to complete your purchase. Your Bitcoin or crypto will be sent directly to your wallet.

Why Cash-to-Crypto Access Matters

Not everyone has a bank account. Not everyone wants to trust an app. And not everyone wants to share financial data just to buy crypto.

Bitstop bridges the gap between everyday cash and the digital economy, making it easier for more people to participate on their own terms.

Whether you’re:

  • Unbanked or underbanked
  • Looking for more privacy
  • Paying with savings or side hustle income

Stablecoins like USDC and USDT are now available to you, no bank account required.

📍Find Your Nearest ATM

Ready to Buy USDC or USDT With Cash?

Want to know the hours of your closest Bitstop? Visit our Bitcoin ATM locator to browse by zip code, city, or use the map to find the nearest machine. You’ll see hours of operation, directions, supported transaction types, and you can even filter by coin to find the exact crypto you’re looking to buy.

Download the Bitstop App

Make your Dogecoin experience even smoother:

  • Track your transactions in real time
  • Find nearby Bitcoin ATMs using one of the most trusted and comprehensive maps in crypto
  • Access your account with ease
  • Get notified about deals, offers, and Bitcoin price changes

Before you go, use the app to verify ATM hours and limits so you are ready to complete your transactions without delays. At Bitstop, we don’t just make it easy to buy Bitcoin and crypto. We reward you for it. Through our in-app Rewards Center, you can:

  • Earn coupons for future transactions
  • Unlock badges as you hit new milestones
  • Complete challenges for exclusive perks

Whether you’re new to crypto or a seasoned buyer, the Bitstop App helps you stay informed, connected, and rewarded every step of the way.

👉 Download the Bitstop App 

Buy Ethereum (ETH) With Cash at Bitstop ATMs – Now Available Nationwide

Ethereum is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market cap, but it’s much more than just digital money. Ethereum is a decentralized blockchain platform that allows users to exchange value, execute contracts, and power applications, all without a third-party intermediary. At the heart of this network is Ether (ETH), the fuel that powers it all. For many buyers, ETH is also seen as a leading crypto coin investment, since its demand comes from powering real-world applications like DeFi, NFTs, and smart contracts. 

Whether you’re here to buy ETH with cash or just curious about what makes Ethereum different from Bitcoin, here’s what you need to know:

What Makes ETH Different From Bitcoin?

While both are cryptocurrencies, they serve different purposes:

  • Bitcoin is mainly used as a digital currency or store of value.
  • Ethereum is designed to run smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).
  • Ethereum uses Proof of Stake (PoS) for its consensus mechanism, while Bitcoin uses Proof of Work (PoW).

ETH is not just a currency, it’s what powers the Ethereum network.

What Are Smart Contracts?

Smart contracts are self-executing agreements written in code. When predefined conditions are met, the contract executes automatically. No middlemen. No delays. Ethereum was the first blockchain to popularize this concept, enabling decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and more. Smart contracts are one of the reasons ETH has become central to modern blockchain systems, giving it lasting value beyond speculation.

How Does Ether (ETH) Work?

Every action on the Ethereum network, like transferring tokens to minting NFTs, requires a transaction fee called gas. ETH is used to pay for this gas. That is why ETH is often referred to as the fuel of the Ethereum network.

  • Gas Fees: The cost of interacting with Ethereum smart contracts
  • Denominated in Gwei: 1 gwei = 0.000000001 ETH
  • Network Congestion: Fees rise with activity; users can pay more to prioritize their transactions
  • Gas Limits: Users can cap the amount they’re willing to spend, adding control over fees

Gas fees also prevent spam by making malicious activity costly.  For anyone considering ETH as a crypto investment, it’s important to understand gas fees since they affect transaction costs and potential returns.

Why ETH Matters

ETH isn’t just for transactions. It plays a critical role in the DeFi ecosystem:

  • Used as collateral to take out crypto loans
  • Earn interest by lending ETH on DeFi platforms
  • Power dApps in finance, gaming, identity, and more
  • Fast and censorship-resistant compared to traditional payment networks

How to Buy ETH With Cash at a Bitstop ATM Bitstop Crypto ATM

Ready to make your first cash-to-crypto purchase? Here’s how it works:

1. Visit a Bitstop ATM – Use our ATM locator to find the closest machine.

2. Tap “Buy” – Select the cryptocurrency you’d like to purchase: ETH, Bitcoin, DOGE, or others (based on availability).

3. Enter Your Phone Number – You’ll receive a text message with a temporary code. Enter it on the machine.

4. Set Up Your Account PIN – This PIN keeps your Bitstop account secure for future visits.

5. Scan Your Government-Issued ID – Hold your ID up to the scanner so the system can verify your identity. *Only required if you’re purchasing over $2,999, or over $1,000 in Arizona or New Mexico.

6. Scan Your Bitcoin Wallet – Open your wallet app, tap Receive, and scan the QR code into the machine. *Make sure your wallet address is accurate; crypto transactions are final.

7. Insert Cash – Insert bills just like you would at a regular ATM. The screen will display:

  • The exchange rate
  • The amount of crypto you’ll receive

*Limits may vary by location. For the most accurate information, create a Bitstop account.

8. Confirm and Send – Once reviewed, tap Send to complete your purchase. Your Bitcoin or crypto will be sent directly to your wallet.

9. Get Your Receipt – You’ll see a confirmation on the screen, plus a printed receipt and a texted copy.

Don’t Have a Wallet Yet? Here’s What You Need to Know

To store your Ethereum, you’ll need a cryptocurrency wallet, which is essentially a digital version of a physical wallet.

Types of Wallets:

  • Custodial Wallets: Managed by services like Robinhood or Coinbase. Easy to use, but you don’t hold the keys.
  • Non-Custodial Wallets (Recommended): You control your Ethereum directly by holding your own private keys. We recommend using Exodus Wallet, simple to set up, secure, and trusted by everyday crypto users.

Want privacy, control, and direct ownership? Go non-custodial.

Why Cash-to-ETH Access Matters

Not everyone wants to link a bank account. Bitstop lets you join the Ethereum ecosystem using cash, without needing an app or financial institution.

Perfect for:

  • People who use cash day-to-day
  • The unbanked or underbanked
  • Anyone who values privacy and self-custody

Bitstop makes crypto accessible, on your terms.

📍Find Your Nearest ETH ATM

Want to know the hours of your closest Bitstop? Visit our Bitcoin ATM locator to browse by zip code, city, or simply use the map to find the nearest machine. You’ll see hours of operation, directions, supported transaction types, and you can even filter by coin to find the exact crypto you’re looking to buy.

Download the Bitstop App

Want even more convenience? Download the Bitstop App to take your crypto experience to the next level.

  • Track your transactions in real time
  • Find nearby Bitcoin ATMs using one of the most trusted and comprehensive maps in crypto
  • Access your account with ease
  • Get notified about deals, offers, and Bitcoin price changes

At Bitstop, we don’t just make it easy to buy Bitcoin and crypto. We reward you for it. Through our in-app Rewards Center, you can:

  • Earn coupons for future transactions
  • Unlock badges as you hit new milestones
  • Complete challenges for exclusive perks

Whether you’re new to crypto or a seasoned buyer, the Bitstop App helps you stay informed, connected, and rewarded every step of the way.

👉 Download the Bitstop App and turn your cash into crypto: simple, secure, and with benefits that grow the more you use it.

Bitstop Expands Multi-Coin Support Across Nationwide ATM Network

Now offering Ethereum, USDC, XRP, Dogecoin, PEPE, and more, available instantly, with cash, at Bitstop locations.

If you’re looking to buy crypto with cash, Bitstop just made it even easier.

Bitstop ATMs now support a wide range of cryptocurrencies, Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), Solana (SOL), Ripple (XRP), Tether (USDT), USD Coin (USDC), Litecoin (LTC), Pepe Coin (PEPE), Dogwifhat (WIF), and PENGU Coin (PENGU) available at Bitstop ATM across the country, all with cash.

“We’re bringing digital currency to the people, because that’s what they’re asking for,” said Doug Carrillo, Bitstop Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer. “With DOGE, ETH, SOL, XRP, USDC, and other cryptocurrencies now available at our ATMs, we’re offering digital asset diversification, from stablecoins and meme coins to leading smart contract platforms.”

Crypto Access Simplified

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a cash-preferred customer, or a crypto holder looking for more coin options, Bitstop’s expanded multi-coin access makes it easy to convert cash into digital currency securely and in seconds.

Each Bitstop ATM is backed by advanced fraud protection, regulatory compliance, and a user-friendly interface, making it one of the fastest and most trusted ways to buy cryptocurrency in person.

Supported Cryptocurrencies at Bitstop ATMs

Bitstop now supports the following digital assets at all ATM locations nationwide:

  • Bitcoin (BTC) – The original decentralized digital currency.
  • Ethereum (ETH) – A leading platform for smart contracts and decentralized apps.
  • Dogecoin (DOGE) – A low-fee, peer-to-peer crypto with growing community adoption.
  • Solana (SOL) – High-speed blockchain for scalable DeFi and Web3 projects.
  • Ripple (XRP) – A crypto solution for fast, low-cost cross-border transfers.
  • Tether (USDT) – The most widely used dollar-pegged stablecoin.
  • USD Coin (USDC) – A fully backed stablecoin used in payments, DeFi, and trading.
  • Litecoin (LTC) – A lightweight, fast, and proven crypto for everyday use.
  • Pepe Coin (PEPE) – A meme coin built on Ethereum with viral popularity.
  • Dogwifhat (WIF) – An emerging meme coin with strong community momentum.
  • PENGU Coin (PENGU) – A playful, community-powered meme token that’s quickly gaining attention.

Bringing Crypto to Everyday Locations

Bitstop ATMs are conveniently located in grocery stores, gas stations, value retailers, and convenience stores across the U.S. Each machine is designed to meet people where they are, making it easier than ever to access the future of finance, on your terms.

To find a Bitstop near you, visit https://bitstop.co/locations

Read More on the Multi-Coin Expansion

For a summary of our multi-coin launch and continued infrastructure growth, check out the official article on AP News.

Bitstop Showcases Crypto and Gold ATM Technology at the 2025 UNFI Holiday & Winter Show in Las Vegas

Financial access, retail innovation, and digital currency meet on the trade show floor

Bitstop is heading to Las Vegas. From July 15-17, 2025, we’ll be exhibiting at the UNFI Holiday & Winter Selling Show at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, one of the largest gatherings of grocery and retail leaders in North America.

As the leading crypto ATM network in the U.S., we’re not just showing up, we’re showing what’s next.

What We’re Bringing to the Show Floor

At Booth #633, Bitstop will debut our latest innovations in retail financial technology, including:

  • Multi-coin crypto ATMs that let customers instantly buy Bitcoin, Ethereum, stablecoins like USDC and USDT, and meme coins like Dogecoin and PEPE, all with cash
  • Gold ATMs that dispense Goldbacks, a tangible form of 24-karat gold embedded into currency-grade notes
  • Advanced fraud protection and user education features to ensure safe, compliant, and secure transactions

These machines are more than ATMs, they’re financial access points designed for today’s customer and tomorrow’s retail environment.

“UNFI brings together thousands of grocers driving what’s next for the grocery retail industry,” said Doug Carrillo, co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Bitstop. “Bitstop machines connect people to crypto and gold using cash, offering retailers a way to meet growing demand for both digital and tangible financial tools.”

Why This Matters for Retailers

The future of money isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why Bitstop helps retailers offer both digital assets and physical gold.

Whether your customers are:

  • Looking to buy Bitcoin with cash
  • Converting cash into stable, dollar-pegged assets
  • Exploring meme coins like DOGE and PEPE
  • Seeking inflation-resistant physical gold

Bitstop meets them where they are.

And for retailers, that means adding a high-utility, high-demand service that drives foot traffic, repeat visits, and customer trust.

Built for Simplicity, Security, and Scale

All Bitstop machines come equipped with:

  • On-screen scam warnings and real-time fraud detection
  • User-friendly interfaces designed for first-timers and experienced crypto buyers alike
  • U.S.-based customer support
  • Compliance-ready architecture that meets regulatory standards

Whether you’re operating a convenience store, supermarket, value retailer, or gas station, our technology integrates seamlessly into your space and enhances your customer experience.

See It in Action at Booth #633

If you’re attending UNFI’s Holiday & Winter Show in Las Vegas, stop by Bitstop Booth #633 for live product demos, Q&As, and expert insight on how to bring cash-powered crypto and gold access to your retail locations.

Bitstop: Powering the Future of Financial Access – One Location at a Time

Founded in 2013, Bitstop is a Miami-based financial technology company building secure, scalable infrastructure for the digital economy. From Bitcoin to Goldbacks, Bitstop enables people to move value their way, fast, simple, and on their terms.

Bitcoin Pizza Day 2025: The Transaction That Changed Crypto


On May 22, 2010, Laszlo Hanyecz made history by trading 10,000 BTC for two pizzas. At the time, that amount of Bitcoin was worth about $41. Today, it would be valued at over $1 billion. This was more than just a quirky online moment, it marked the first real-world Bitcoin transaction and set the first monetary value for cryptocurrency.

Fifteen years later, Bitcoin Pizza Day continues to represent a pivotal moment in the evolution of digital currency. It demonstrated that Bitcoin could be exchanged for tangible goods, helping pave the way for global crypto adoption.

This year, Medium featured Bitstop for celebrating the milestone and for our ongoing work to expand access to cryptocurrency through a growing network of Bitcoin ATMs across the United States.

Bitcoin Pizza Day is more than a celebration of one of crypto’s quirky origin stories,” said Doug Carrillo, Bitstop Co-Founder. “It’s a reminder of the journey toward financial freedom and the importance of access.”

To honor the 15th anniversary of Bitcoin Pizza Day, Bitstop is offering 15% off transaction fees at Bitcoin ATM locations nationwide. Use promo code PIZZA15 from May 22 through May 29 at 3:00 AM ET. Find a Bitcoin ATM near you and buy Bitcoin with cash, fast, secure, and on your terms.

Since 2013, Bitstop has made it simple for people to access Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies by converting physical cash into digital currency. With ATMs located in convenience stores, gas stations, and grocery chains, Bitstop is building the last mile of crypto infrastructure.

From those first two pizzas to a nationwide network of Bitcoin ATMs, Bitstop is proud to power the next chapter of the digital economy.

The U.S. Creates a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve: What It Means for the Future of Crypto Access

In a major move toward legitimizing digital assets, President Trump has signed an executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, backed by roughly 200,000 BTC seized through civil and criminal forfeiture. Rather than sell off these holdings, the government plans to treat Bitcoin as a long-term store of value, similar to a digital Fort Knox.

This isn’t just symbolic. It signals that the U.S. is beginning to view Bitcoin as a strategic asset, one that may play a central role in the future of finance and national economic stability.

Key Takeaways from the U.S. Bitcoin Reserve Executive Order

  • Creates a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, initially funded by seized assets.
  • Restricts liquidating these holdings, affirming Bitcoin’s role as a store of value.
  • Calls for a full audit of all government-held bitcoin.
  • Explores ways to acquire more BTC, without adding costs to taxpayers.

White House Crypto Summit Brings Industry Leaders Together

The White House Crypto Summit brings together prominent figures from the cryptocurrency industry to discuss regulatory clarity, innovation, and economic growth. Confirmed attendees include Michael Saylor, executive chairman of Strategy (formerly MicroStrategy), Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong, and Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse. The summit aims to foster collaboration between the government and industry leaders to solidify the U.S.’s position as a global leader in digital finance.

Why the Strategic Reserve Matters for Crypto Users and Bitcoin ATM Access

The establishment of a government-backed Bitcoin reserve marks a significant milestone in the mainstream acceptance of cryptocurrencies. By treating bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset, the U.S. government acknowledges its potential as a store of value and a hedge against economic uncertainties. This move is expected to encourage institutional adoption and could pave the way for other nations to consider similar reserves, thereby enhancing bitcoin’s legitimacy on the global stage. For everyday consumers looking to participate in this growing ecosystem, Bitcoin ATMs offer a fast and convenient way to buy and sell bitcoin locally. You can find a Bitcoin ATM near you here, making it easier than ever to access digital assets.

However, some industry experts express concerns that the current plan, which relies on confiscated assets, may not fully meet expectations for a robust bitcoin accumulation strategy. They advocate for clearer policy frameworks to foster innovation and address potential conflicts of interest, especially given President Trump’s personal involvement in crypto ventures.

Bitstop’s Mission: Expanding Cash-to-Crypto Access in a Digitally-Driven Economy

By publicly holding and securing Bitcoin, the U.S. is sending a message: Bitcoin is here to stay.

This could lead to:

  • Increased institutional adoption
  • Broader global acceptance
  • Stronger long-term price stability

But this also reinforces something we’ve known from the beginning: access matters.

For everyday people, whether you’re buying $40 of Bitcoin or using crypto to send money across borders, how you access that system is just as important as who owns it.

That’s where Bitstop comes in.

With one of the largest and most secure Bitcoin ATM networks in the U.S., we’re building the infrastructure that lets you buy and hold your own BTC, on your terms, with your wallet, and with cash in hand.

📍 Find a Bitstop location near you.

Bitcoin Turns 16: A Milestone in the Digital Economy

January 3rd marks a turning point in financial history. On this day in 2009, the Bitcoin network came to life with the mining of the very first block – known as the genesis block, by its anonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. That single block ignited a movement, laying the foundation for decentralized digital currency and opening the door to an entirely new financial system.

At Bitstop, we honor this milestone not just as crypto enthusiasts, but as builders of the infrastructure that powers everyday access to Bitcoin across the U.S.

The Genesis Block: Where It All Began

On January 3, 2009, the anonymous creator of Bitcoin, Satoshi Nakamoto, mined the first block, known as the genesis block or Block 0. Embedded within it was the message: “The Times 03/Jan/2009 Chancellor on brink of second bailout for banks.” This statement was a clear nod to the financial crisis of 2008 and an implicit critique of the traditional banking system. Bitcoin was born as an alternative- a peer-to-peer electronic cash system free from central authority.

Sweet 16: A Decade and a Half of Transformation

In its 16 years, Bitcoin has transcended its initial perception as an obscure experiment. It has grown into a trillion-dollar asset class, sparking the creation of thousands of cryptocurrencies and countless blockchain projects. Bitcoin’s milestones include:

  • 2010: The first commercial Bitcoin transaction, 10,000 BTC for two pizzas, famously marked the first real-world use case.
  • 2013: Reaching $1 billion in market capitalization, signaling growing mainstream interest.
  • 2017: Surpassing $20,000 in price for the first time, drawing unprecedented global attention.
  • 2021: Adoption as legal tender in El Salvador, a historic moment for cryptocurrency acceptance.
  • 2024: Bitcoin price hits 100k for the first time.

Through it all, one thing has remained true: Bitcoin belongs to the people.

Why Bitcoin Matters

Bitcoin isn’t just about price, it’s a symbol of freedom, innovation, and the power of decentralization. By enabling borderless transactions and providing an alternative store of value, Bitcoin empowers individuals in ways traditional financial systems often cannot. It has become a tool for financial inclusion, especially in regions where access to banking services is limited.

Looking Ahead

As we celebrate Bitcoin’s Sweet 16, it’s also a time to ponder its future. Will it become a global reserve currency? Will its lightning-fast transactions and low fees revolutionize remittances? The possibilities are endless, and Bitcoin’s resilience suggests it’s here to stay.

Join the Celebration

At Bitstop, we’re proud to be part of Bitcoin’s journey. Our mission is to make Bitcoin accessible to everyone through our extensive network of Bitcoin ATMs, empowering individuals to take control of their financial future. Whether you’re a long-time Bitcoin enthusiast or new to the world of cryptocurrency, we’re here to help. Celebrate Bitcoin’s Sweet 16 by finding the nearest Bitcoin ATM to you and joining the decentralized revolution.

Happy Sweet 16, Bitcoin!

📍 Find a Bitstop Bitcoin ATM near you