The Bitcoin symbol (₿) is more than just a graphic; it represents a revolutionary digital currency and a new era of finance. Officially encoded into the Unicode Standard, this symbol allows Bitcoin to be represented textually alongside traditional currency symbols like the dollar ($) and the euro (€). This guide covers everything you need to know about the ₿ symbol, from its technical encoding to its practical use.
What is the Bitcoin Sign (₿)?
The Bitcoin sign, "₿", is the official symbol for the world's first decentralized cryptocurrency, Bitcoin. It was created to provide a standardized, universally recognizable way to denote Bitcoin amounts in digital and written communication, much like traditional fiat currencies.
This symbol was approved and included in the Unicode Standard to ensure compatibility across different operating systems, devices, and applications. Its adoption marks a significant step in the mainstream recognition of digital assets.
Unicode Specification and Technical Details
The Bitcoin symbol was officially incorporated into the Unicode Standard in version 10.0, which was released in 2017. It is part of the "Currency Symbols" block, which contains symbols for various global currencies.
Here are its key technical identifiers:
- Unicode Name: Bitcoin Sign
- Unicode Number: U+20BF
- Unicode Block: Currency Symbols
- Unicode Version: 10.0 (2017)
- Script: Common
This standardized encoding ensures that the symbol displays consistently for users worldwide, regardless of their platform.
How to Type and Use the Bitcoin Symbol
You don't need a special keyboard to use the ₿ symbol. There are several easy methods to copy, type, and implement it across various platforms.
Copy and Paste Method
The simplest way to use the symbol is to copy it from a reliable source online. You can copy it directly from this page: ₿. Simply highlight the symbol, right-click and select "Copy," then navigate to your desired application and "Paste" it.
Keyboard Entry and Code Implementation
For developers and more technical users, the symbol can be implemented using its direct character code.
| Encoding | Code |
|---|---|
| HTML Decimal | ₿ |
| HTML Hex | ₿ |
| CSS | \20BF |
| JavaScript | \u20BF |
| URL Encoding | %E2%82%BF |
These codes are essential for web developers and designers who want to display the symbol correctly on websites and in web applications. For a deeper dive into integrating such symbols into digital projects, you can explore more strategies for seamless implementation.
The Bitcoin Symbol in Context: Comparison with Other Currency Symbols
The Bitcoin symbol sits alongside a wide array of traditional currency symbols in the Unicode standard. Understanding its peers helps illustrate its place in the global financial lexicon.
- Traditional Fiat Symbols: $ (Dollar), € (Euro), £ (Pound), ¥ (Yen), ₹ (Indian Rupee)
- Historical Currency Symbols: ₣ (French Franc), ₧ (Peseta), ℳ (German Mark)
- Other Cryptocurrencies: While Bitcoin has a standardized symbol (₿), most other cryptocurrencies do not yet have an official Unicode designation and are often represented by their ticker abbreviations (e.g., ETH for Ethereum).
The inclusion of ₿ in this group signifies its importance and the growing acceptance of digital currencies as a legitimate medium of exchange.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Unicode for the Bitcoin symbol?
The Bitcoin symbol (₿) has the Unicode designation U+20BF. It was officially added to the Unicode Standard in version 10.0, released in 2017, ensuring it can be displayed consistently across different software and devices.
How can I type the Bitcoin symbol on my keyboard?
Most operating systems allow you to type the Bitcoin symbol by using a specific keyboard shortcut. On Windows, hold the Alt key and type 8383 on the numeric keypad. On a Mac, press Control + Command + Space to open the Character Viewer and search for "Bitcoin." The simplest method, however, is to copy (Ctrl+C) the symbol (₿) from a web page and paste (Ctrl+V) it where needed.
Why was a specific symbol needed for Bitcoin?
A unique symbol grants Bitcoin instant recognition and legitimacy, placing it on par with established national currencies like the dollar ($) or euro (€). It standardizes written communication, prevents confusion with other abbreviations, and strengthens the brand identity of the cryptocurrency.
Is the Bitcoin symbol the same as the Thai Baht symbol?
No, they are different symbols. The Bitcoin symbol is ₿ (Unicode U+20BF). The Thai Baht symbol is ฿ (Unicode U+0E3F). While they look similar, they represent entirely different currencies and are encoded in separate Unicode blocks.
Can I use the Bitcoin symbol in any font?
Not every font supports the Bitcoin symbol. Since it was added to Unicode relatively recently in 2017, older fonts may not include it. Modern, widely-used fonts (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman, Segoe UI) and fonts designed for financial or technical use typically have support for it. If the symbol doesn't display correctly, trying a different font usually resolves the issue.
What is the difference between BTC and ₿?
"BTC" is the official three-letter ticker abbreviation for Bitcoin, commonly used on exchanges and trading platforms. "₿" is the currency symbol, used similarly to how "$" is used instead of writing "USD" when denoting a monetary amount (e.g., $100 vs. ₿0.001). The symbol offers a more concise and familiar notation for values.