The Bitcoin network has once again recorded a significant milestone in its history. As of block 940,000, a total of 20 million BTC has been successfully mined by miners worldwide. This figure represents approximately 95.2% of Bitcoin's maximum total supply, which is capped at 21 million BTC.

In other words, only about 1 million BTC remain to be mined in the future.

This development highlights how close Bitcoin is getting to the maximum supply limit established from the beginning by its creator, Satoshi Nakamoto. Unlike fiat currencies, which can be printed indefinitely by central banks, Bitcoin was designed with a limited supply mechanism, a primary reason this asset is often referred to as "digital gold."

Bitcoin Emission Continues to Slow

Although only about 1 million BTC remain, the process of mining these remaining coins will not be completed anytime soon. Based on the Bitcoin protocol design, the distribution of new coins continues to slow down through the halving mechanism, which occurs every 210,000 blocks.

During each halving event, the block reward received by miners is cut in half. Currently, following the most recent halving in 2024, the mining reward stands at 3.125 BTC per block.

Due to this mechanism, it is estimated that the final 1 million BTC will be mined gradually over the next 114 years, with the very last coin expected to be produced around the year 2140.

Impact on the Crypto Ecosystem

For the crypto community, the 20 million BTC milestone serves as a vital reminder of Bitcoin's scarcity. As fewer coins remain to be mined, the available market supply becomes increasingly tight.

Many analysts view this scarcity factor as a primary driver of Bitcoin's long-term value, especially as institutional demand and global adoption continue to rise.

On the other hand, for crypto industry participants including traders, investors, and airdrop hunters this development reinforces the narrative that Bitcoin remains the core asset and foundation of the entire crypto ecosystem.

With over 95% of the supply already in circulation, Bitcoin's journey is entering a new phase where scarcity becomes more tangible, even as adoption and innovation within the ecosystem continue to flourish.