How many bitcoins have been lost forever?

7 answers

• nkeshApr 14, 2025 · 3 months ago
  Well, estimating the exact number of lost bitcoins is quite challenging. Since bitcoin transactions are pseudonymous, it's difficult to differentiate between lost coins and those that are simply dormant. However, various studies and analyses have attempted to estimate the number of lost bitcoins. One study conducted in 2017 suggested that around 4 million bitcoins have been lost forever, which is approximately 20% of the total supply. But keep in mind that these estimates are not definitive and can vary.
  509

  255
• Ravishankar RameshJun 08, 2022 · 3 years ago
  Ah, lost bitcoins, the digital treasure hunt! It's hard to say exactly how many bitcoins have been lost forever, mate. You see, when people lose access to their bitcoin wallets or forget their private keys, those coins are as good as gone. Some estimates suggest that around 20% of all bitcoins are lost, which is quite a substantial amount. So, if you're thinking of diving into the world of cryptocurrencies, make sure you keep your private keys safe and sound!
  463

  155
• Rahbek CoxNov 14, 2020 · 5 years ago
  According to a recent analysis by BYDFi, a leading cryptocurrency exchange, it is estimated that approximately 2.78 million bitcoins have been lost forever. This accounts for around 13% of the total bitcoin supply. These lost bitcoins are a result of various reasons, including forgotten passwords, misplaced hardware wallets, and unrecoverable data. It's a reminder that in the world of cryptocurrencies, security and backup measures are of utmost importance.
  460

  115
• contaProgramNov 16, 2020 · 5 years ago
  Lost bitcoins? It's a sad reality in the world of cryptocurrencies. While it's difficult to determine the exact number, some estimates suggest that around 4 million bitcoins have been lost forever. These lost coins are scattered across forgotten wallets, discarded hard drives, and even buried in landfills. It's a cautionary tale for all bitcoin holders to ensure they have proper backup and recovery mechanisms in place.
  422

  85
• dutc1234 dutc1234Feb 18, 2023 · 2 years ago
  Well, the exact number of lost bitcoins is a mystery that even Sherlock Holmes would struggle to solve. With the anonymous nature of bitcoin transactions, it's nearly impossible to track down lost coins accurately. However, experts estimate that around 20% of all bitcoins have been lost forever. So, if you're ever lucky enough to stumble upon a forgotten bitcoin wallet, consider yourself a digital treasure hunter!
  417

  70
• stackyyApr 20, 2021 · 4 years ago
  Lost bitcoins? It's like searching for a needle in a haystack. While it's challenging to determine the precise number of lost bitcoins, some estimates suggest that around 4 million bitcoins have been lost forever. These lost coins are a result of various unfortunate events, including forgotten passwords, hardware failures, and even accidental deletions. So, always remember to back up your wallets and keep your private keys safe to avoid joining the lost bitcoin club.
  471

  68
• azzaMay 24, 2021 · 4 years ago
  Estimating the number of lost bitcoins is like trying to count the stars in the sky. It's a daunting task, my friend. However, some experts believe that around 20% of all bitcoins have been lost forever. These lost coins are a result of human error, technological mishaps, and the unforgiving nature of time. So, if you're ever lucky enough to find a lost bitcoin, consider it a digital lottery win!
  399

  50