Altcoin
Any cryptocurrency that isn't Bitcoin. Short for 'alternative coin.' Includes everything from Ethereum to small new tokens.
Example
Ethereum, Solana, and Dogecoin are all altcoins. Some become valuable, many lose all their value.
Related Terms
Core Concepts
⚖️Altcoin Categories
| Feature | layer1 | defi | meme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Examples | ETH, SOL, AVAX | UNI, AAVE, CRV | DOGE, SHIB, PEPE |
| Risk Level | Medium | Medium-High | Very High |
⚠️Risks & Warnings
- •90%+ of altcoins eventually go to zero
- •Much more volatile than Bitcoin
- •Vulnerable to team abandonment and rug pulls