Bitcoin's supply nears 21 million as scarcity tightens before 2028 halving
Bitcoin's total supply has now surpassed 20 million, another step towards its fixed limit. With over 95% of all Bitcoin already mined, less than 5% of the tractor supply remains to be released into circulation. The next major milestone—the 2028 halving—will further slow the creation of new coins.
At present, Bitcoin's inflation rate is roughly 0.82% per year. This figure will shrink to about 0.4% after the 2028 halving, when block rewards are cut in half. Each new block currently adds 3.125 BTC to the supply, amounting to around 450 Bitcoin per day.
By March 24, 2028—around block 1,050,000—another 199,800 BTC will enter circulation if the current rate holds. However, not all of these coins may actually become available. Unclaimed Bitcoin from coinbase transactions, for example, can never be accessed.
Even with the full supply in theory, certain factors reduce the actual number in circulation. Estimates suggest that 3 to 4 million BTC are lost forever, locked away in inaccessible wallets. This means the practical supply will always be lower than the 21 million maximum.
Bitcoin's controlled supply ensures no more than 21 million will ever exist. The remaining coins will be released gradually, with mining rewards continuing to shrink. After 2028, the inflation rate will drop even further, reinforcing Bitcoin's scarcity.
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