Bitcoin is the world's first and most widely recognized cryptocurrency, built on a decentralized, peer-to-peer network that operates without a central authority. Launched in 2009 by an anonymous creator known as Satoshi Nakamoto, Bitcoin's key feature is its limited supply of 21 million coins, which ensures scarcity and drives its value. Often referred to as "digital gold," Bitcoin serves as both a store of value and a hedge against inflation. As adoption grows, Bitcoin continues to shape the future of finance and digital assets.