Change often begins in the quietest moments. For the Bitcoin community, May 22nd—Bitcoin Pizza Day—stands as a testament to this truth.
This year, Bitcoin underwent its third halving on May 12th. Amid the shadow of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bitcoin Pizza Day remains one of the few occasions where crypto enthusiasts set aside differences to celebrate, reminisce, and humorously reflect on the infamous transaction where 10,000 BTC bought two pizzas.
What Is Bitcoin Pizza Day?
Bitcoin Pizza Day is an annual celebration in the crypto community commemorating the first known real-world Bitcoin transaction. On May 22, 2010, programmer Laszlo Hanyecz exchanged 10,000 BTC for two pizzas from Papa John's.
How Did the Transaction Happen?
On May 18, 2010, Laszlo posted a message on BitcoinTalk forum:
"I'll pay 10,000 bitcoins for a couple of pizzas."
Jeremy Sturdivant, a crypto enthusiast, saw the post and agreed to fulfill the order. Two days later, Laszlo confirmed the trade with the iconic update:
"I just bought two pizzas for 10,000 bitcoins!"
The original BitcoinTalk thread remains archived, attracting comments over the years as Bitcoin’s value soared:
- 2010: "Could this be the world’s first million-dollar pizza?"
- 2012: "Those pizzas are now worth $60,000."
- 2015: "At $200/BTC, those two pizzas cost $2 million!"
- 2016: "Circulation gives Bitcoin value. Without transactions like this, Bitcoin would be nothing."
Why Does Bitcoin Pizza Day Matter?
This transaction marked Bitcoin’s first real-world utility, proving its potential as a medium of exchange. Its legacy lies in demonstrating cryptocurrency’s practical use beyond theoretical value.
What Was 10,000 BTC Worth in 2010?
The pizzas cost $25 (~41 BTC/USD). Adjusted for today’s prices, 10,000 BTC nears **$1 billion**.
Where Did the 10,000 BTC Go?
Jeremy sold most of his BTC when prices reached $400. Blockchain records show the 10,000 BTC split into two addresses (5,777 BTC and 4,223 BTC) the next day.
👉 Explore Bitcoin’s historical transactions
Pizza Chain Controversy: While most believe the pizzas were from Papa John’s, Jeremy insists they were Domino’s—though no receipts survive. Notably, Domino’s now accepts Bitcoin, adding fuel to the debate.
FAQ
Q: How much would 10,000 BTC be worth today?
A: Approximately $900 million (as of 2025 valuations).
Q: Did Laszlo regret the trade?
A: He’s stated he’s happy to have pioneered Bitcoin’s real-world use.
Q: Can you buy pizza with Bitcoin today?
A: Yes! Major chains like Domino’s and Pizza Hut now accept crypto payments.
👉 Discover crypto-friendly merchants
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