The legendary Bitcoin Pizza Day marks its 15th anniversary today, as the cryptocurrency community celebrates what has become one of the most significant transactions in digital currency history. On May 22, 2010, developer Laszlo Hanyecz made history by completing the first real-world Bitcoin transaction – spending 10,000 BTC on two Papa John’s pizzas.
In a remarkable testament to Bitcoin’s meteoric rise, those same 10,000 BTC that bought $41 worth of pizza are now valued at over $1.1 billion. This milestone comes as Bitcoin recently hit a new all-time high of $112,000, with analysts projecting even higher targets ahead.
The Transaction That Changed Cryptocurrency Forever
Hanyecz’s forum post offering 10,000 BTC for two pizzas seemed mundane at the time, but it proved to be the catalyst that demonstrated Bitcoin’s real-world utility. The transaction marked the first time Bitcoin moved from being purely theoretical to a practical medium of exchange.
Legacy and Impact on Bitcoin Adoption
The pizza purchase has become more than just a historical curiosity – it’s now a global celebration of Bitcoin’s journey from obscurity to mainstream adoption. This year’s anniversary is particularly significant as Bitcoin ETF inflows reach record levels and institutional adoption continues to accelerate.
Modern Day Impact
Today, Bitcoin Pizza Day serves as both a celebration and an educational opportunity. Major brands are embracing the occasion, with companies like Steak ‘n Shake now accepting Bitcoin payments via the Lightning Network, demonstrating how far cryptocurrency payments have evolved since that first pizza purchase.
FAQ Section
Q: How much was 10,000 BTC worth in 2010?
A: The 10,000 BTC used to purchase the pizzas was worth approximately $41 at the time of the transaction.
Q: What is the current value of those bitcoins?
A: As of May 2025, the 10,000 BTC would be worth over $1.1 billion at current market prices.
Q: Why is Bitcoin Pizza Day important?
A: It marks the first real-world transaction using Bitcoin, proving its utility as a medium of exchange and helping establish its legitimacy as a currency.
