Bitcoin Supply

Bitcoin's supply is capped at a maximum of 21 million coins, a limit hardcoded into its protocol. This fixed supply is a core feature of Bitcoin’s design, creating inherent scarcity that underpins its value proposition as a digital asset. Unlike traditional fiat currencies, which can be printed in unlimited quantities by central banks, Bitcoin’s issuance follows a predetermined schedule, with new coins released through mining rewards that halve approximately every four years until reaching the maximum supply.

This predictable and finite supply makes Bitcoin inherently deflationary. As demand for Bitcoin grows and the available supply nears its cap, the limited number of coins can lead to increased value over time, positioning Bitcoin as a potential store of value similar to precious metals like gold. The scarcity provided by Bitcoin’s fixed supply plays a crucial role in shielding it from inflationary pressures that commonly affect fiat money, making it attractive to investors seeking an asset resistant to currency debasement.