September’s Flurry of 2012 ‘Sleeping Bitcoin’ Spends
A series of Bitcoin transactions from 2012 has been taking place this month, with several addresses from that year suddenly becoming active. On Monday, five BTC transactions were executed, followed by another burst of activity on Tuesday, which moved an additional 519.95 BTC. These vintage transfers have caught the attention of the crypto community.
October 7, 2012: Address “15ZuB” Moves 10 BTC
At block height 808,426, the address “15ZuB” sprang into action and shifted ten bitcoin valued at $270K. This digital wallet was created on October 7, 2012.
November 11, 2012: Address “1MLs3” Moves 10 BTC
Block 808,437 witnessed another ten bitcoin being unleashed from the address “1MLs3,” which originated on November 11, 2012.
December 12, 2012: Address “1365X” Moves 10 BTC
In another twist, block 808,438 experienced a similar movement with yet another ten bitcoin on the move. This vintage transfer came from the address “1365X,” created on December 12, 2012.
Additional Transactions from Addresses Established in 2012
Two more transfers from addresses established in 2012 shifted considerably heftier amounts. The address “1951B,” created on September 7, 2012, orchestrated a move of 99.99 BTC valued at $2.71 million. Simultaneously, within the same block, the bitcoin address “19jw9” dispensed 89.99 BTC. Both wallets were established on the same date.
More 2012 Transactions
A while later, at block 808,493, a set of three transactions from 2012 were spent. The legacy addresses were created on September 10 and 11, 2012. All eight transfers from 2012 were caught by btcparser.com.
September’s Bitcoin Awakening
The latest data from September 19 reveals that a total of 17 transactions from 2012 have taken place this month. From January 1, 2023, through September 19, 2023, a staggering 5,130.81 BTC from 2012, equivalent to $139 million, has been roused from slumber. So far this month, no transfers have emerged from the 2010 and 2011 periods.
Hot Take: Vintage Bitcoin Transfers Raise Questions
The sudden activity of dormant Bitcoin addresses from 2012 has sparked curiosity in the crypto community. While it is unclear why these “sleeping Bitcoins” are being spent now, some speculate that it could be due to various reasons such as individuals reclaiming lost funds or preparing for potential market movements. These transactions serve as a reminder of the unique nature of cryptocurrencies and the mysteries they hold. As more vintage Bitcoin transfers occur, it will be interesting to see if any patterns or explanations emerge.