Unfunded 2012 Casascius "Bitnickel" 5 Bitcoin (BTC). Series 1 and Series 2 Type. Nickel Brass. 28.5 mm. MS-67 (ICG). This is an unfunded and non-active cryptocurrency coin that is not loaded with any cryptocurrency. Nonetheless, it remains an exciting opportunity to own this large denomination issue with a face value of 5 BTC. 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 MS-65 example sold for $4,800 in our April 2022 sale and we expect even stronger interest in this Superb Gem MS-67 example. 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.* PCGS# 888960.
