2012 Casascius "Bitnickel" 5 Bitcoin (BTC). Nickel Plated Brass. Unfunded (Unloaded). Series 1 and Series 2 Type. 28.5 mm. MS-65 (PCGS). An exciting opportunity to own this large denomination issue with a face value of 5 BTC. Though unfunded, it would have a current value (February 2022) equivalent to approximately US$190,000 if it were loaded with actual cryptocurrency. The surfaces display satiny luster and a blend of pewter-gray and platinum-white coloration depending on the lighting. Interestingly, the weakness at the motto VIRES IN NUMERIS on the obverse is seen on virtually all examples from these series. An attractive piece and the only example graded by PCGS. <p>According to researcher Elias Ahonen, the Series 1 Casascius 5 BTC funded coins were released in January 2012 with an issue price of 6 BTC, amounting to around US$33 at the time. They were initially released with a gold-colored hologram but a silver-colored hologram was introduced for Series 2 circa April 2012. Mike Caldwell, the creator of the Casascius series, eventually released an unreported quantity of unfunded "bitnickel" planchets for enthusiasts to fund on their own. This example can likely be traced back to this later release.</p><p>Stack’s Bowers Galleries is also excited to offer our clients the ability to pay for their purchases with Bitcoin. We have arranged with BitPay to facilitate all Bitcoin payments and a 1% fee will be added to all invoices for this service. Additional terms and conditions apply, and bidders are required to contact Stack’s Bowers Galleries before the sale with any questions relating to payment via BitPay. Clients who would like to settle an invoice via BitPay must contact our accounting department to arrange for a payment request.<br></p>
