Two long-dormant Bitcoin wallets holding 20,000 BTC ($2.18 billion at current prices) suddenly became active on July 4, 2025, after 14 years of inactivity. The coins were originally acquired in April 2011 when Bitcoin traded at $0.78, representing a staggering 140,000x return. Blockchain trackers identified the wallets transferring assets to new non-exchange addresses, showing no immediate signs of liquidation.
Key details of the movement:
• The wallets (“12tLs…xj2me” and “1KbrS…AWJYm”) received 10,000 BTC each on April 3, 2011
• Transferred to new addresses 14 years later to the day (July 4, 2025)
• Current value: $109,000 per BTC
• No exchange involvement detected, suggesting holding rather than selling
Market implications:
While “whale movements” often trigger market speculation, the lack of exchange deposits indicates these holders aren’t cashing out immediately. The event highlights the extraordinary gains of early Bitcoin adopters – a $780 investment in 2011 would now be worth $1.09 billion. Analysts note such transactions can influence sentiment but rarely cause sustained volatility without actual selling pressure.
This transaction underscores Bitcoin’s potential for long-term wealth preservation, with original holders maintaining positions despite 140,000% appreciation. The crypto community watches for follow-up activity to gauge whether this marks a strategic portfolio shift or continued holding.