Even without real-world use cases, memecoins have soared in popularity as speculative, community-driven tokens.
Following the 2023 introduction of the BRC-20 token standard, memecoins debuted on Bitcoin and gained further traction with the Runes protocol—both technologies enabling the creation and management of fungible tokens on the Bitcoin blockchain.
Keep reading to learn about Bitcoin memecoins, their background, and how to purchase your first meme token using the Xverse wallet.
What Are Memecoins?
Memecoins are cryptocurrencies based on viral internet memes, jokes, or trending topics. Designed to be humorous, playful, and highly speculative, they often lack utility or real-world applications.
Despite their volatility, memecoins remain widely popular in the crypto community. Their value typically hinges on community engagement and the hype generated on social media. Generally, the larger the supportive community, the higher the short-term success potential.
The Rise of Meme Cryptocurrencies: From Dogecoin to SHIB and Bonk
The origins of memecoins trace back to the original meme cryptocurrency: Dogecoin (DOGE). Launched in December 2013 by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer, DOGE was inspired by the "Doge" Shiba Inu meme and written in Comic Sans font as a lighthearted parody of Bitcoin.
Dogecoin cultivated a unique, humorous identity, often poking fun at traditional finance. With a strong meme culture and community backing, DOGE surged to an all-time high of $0.7376 in May 2021, fueled by Elon Musk's public endorsements.
Between DOGE’s launch and its 2021 rally, the ERC-20 standard emerged on Ethereum, simplifying token creation without mining. A standout example is Shiba Inu (SHIB), which launched in August 2020 and peaked in October 2021 at $0.00008845. SHIB now ranks among the top 15 cryptocurrencies by market cap.
The success of DOGE and SHIB spurred a wave of memecoins, many adding "Inu" to their names for distinction. While most initially relied on Ethereum’s ERC-20 standard, other blockchains soon followed.
Today, Solana-based memecoins like dogwifhat (WIF) and Bonk (BONK) have gained traction, leveraging viral dog memes for community appeal.
By 2023, memecoins arrived on Bitcoin—thanks to Ordinals and BRC-20.
What Are Bitcoin Memecoins?
The 2023 launch of the Ordinals protocol enabled the BRC-20 standard, allowing fungible tokens to be minted and traded on Bitcoin. As Bitcoin’s answer to Ethereum’s ERC-20, BRC-20 let builders create tokens—paving the way for Bitcoin memecoins.
However, BRC-20 faced issues like spam outputs. These were addressed by the Runes protocol, introduced in April 2024.
The first Runes-based memecoin, DOG•GO•TO•THE•MOON (DOG), was airdropped to Runestone Ordinals holders. Spearheaded by influencer Leonidas, DOG has become a leading Bitcoin memecoin.
Dozens of other Bitcoin memecoins now aim to bring meme culture to the world’s most secure blockchain.
Top Bitcoin Runes Memecoins
While many Bitcoin-based Runes memecoins exist, here are some of the most prominent:
1. DOG•GO•TO•THE•MOON (DOG)
- The first Runes memecoin (3rd Rune created).
- Inspired by crypto’s dog meme trend and Ordinals influencer Leonidas.
2. PUPS•WORLD•PEACE (PUPS)
- Originally launched as a BRC-20 token in 2023, later bridged to Runes (#13 Rune).
- Plans for a Bitcoin-Solana bridge to enhance cross-chain utility.
3. BILLION•DOLLAR•CAT (BDC)
- A cat-themed memecoin targeting a $1B market cap.
- Features a profile-picture generator with its signature "B" cat logo.
4. SATOSHI•NAKAMOTO (Rune 6)
- Named after Bitcoin’s anonymous creator.
- Positions itself as a non-animal memecoin exploring Bitcoin’s mysteries.
How to Trade Bitcoin Memecoins Using Xverse
Xverse’s Runes Swap Aggregator simplifies trading Bitcoin memecoins by sourcing the best market prices. Here’s how:
- Download Xverse and fund your wallet with BTC via fiat on-ramp or transfers.
- Tap "Swap" and select BTC as your base currency.
- Choose your desired Rune token under "To." Use the search bar if needed.
- Enter the amount and click "Get Quotes" for pricing options.
- Review and confirm the transaction.
👉 Start trading Bitcoin memecoins today
Managing Bitcoin Memecoins with Xverse
Xverse’s support for BRC-20 and Runes, plus its integrated DEX, makes managing memecoins effortless.
👉 Download Xverse to begin your Bitcoin memecoin journey.
FAQs
Q: Are memecoins a good investment?
A: Highly speculative. While some gain viral traction, most lack long-term utility. Invest cautiously.
Q: What’s the difference between BRC-20 and Runes?
A: BRC-20 pioneered Bitcoin tokens but had spam issues. Runes optimized efficiency and reduced blockchain clutter.
Q: Can I store memecoins in any Bitcoin wallet?
A: No. Use wallets like Xverse that support BRC-20/Runes.
Q: Why are dog-themed memecoins so popular?
A: Dog memes (e.g., Doge, SHIB) have enduring viral appeal, driving community engagement.
Q: How do I identify promising new memecoins?
A: Look for strong communities, transparent teams, and unique memes—but always DYOR.
For deeper insights into Bitcoin DeFi, check out our guide on sBTC and Bitcoin rollups.