The rise of memecoins has taken the cryptocurrency world by storm, capturing the imagination of retail investors and digital communities alike. While many lack real-world utility, these community-driven, speculative tokens thrive on virality, humor, and social media momentum. Originally popularized on blockchains like Ethereum and Solana, memecoins have now made their way onto Bitcoin—thanks to innovations like the BRC-20 standard and the Runes protocol.
This article explores the evolution of memecoins, their emergence on Bitcoin, key projects leading the charge, and how to get started with buying and managing these digital assets using a compatible wallet.
Understanding Memecoins: More Than Just a Joke
Memecoins are cryptocurrencies inspired by internet memes, jokes, or cultural trends. Unlike traditional blockchain projects focused on solving technical or financial problems, memecoins prioritize community engagement, entertainment, and speculation.
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While often dismissed as frivolous, memecoins can generate significant returns in short periods due to strong grassroots support and celebrity endorsements. Their value is less tied to technology and more to narrative, hype, and network effects amplified through platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit.
Despite their volatility, memecoins have proven resilient in the crypto ecosystem, evolving from niche experiments into multi-billion-dollar markets.
The Rise of Meme Cryptocurrencies: From Doge to SHIB and Bonk
The story of memecoins begins with Dogecoin (DOGE), launched in December 2013 by Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer as a satirical take on the growing crypto frenzy. Featuring the iconic Shiba Inu dog and Comic Sans typography, DOGE quickly gained traction for its lighthearted branding and inclusive community.
What started as a joke transformed into a legitimate financial asset when high-profile figures like Elon Musk began promoting it. In May 2021, DOGE reached an all-time high of $0.7376, fueled by social media buzz and growing adoption for microtransactions and tipping.
The success of Dogecoin paved the way for new meme-based projects. One of the most notable is Shiba Inu (SHIB), launched in August 2020 on Ethereum’s ERC-20 standard. SHIB exploded in popularity in 2021, peaking at $0.00008845 and securing its place among the top 15 cryptocurrencies by market cap.
Other blockchains followed suit. Solana became a hotspot for fast, low-cost memecoin launches, giving rise to tokens like dogwifhat (WIF) and Bonk (BONK)—both leveraging absurd humor and strong community coordination to gain visibility.
But the latest frontier? Bitcoin.
How Memecoins Came to Bitcoin: BRC-20 and the Runes Protocol
For years, Bitcoin was seen primarily as digital gold—a secure, decentralized store of value—but not ideal for launching new tokens due to its limited scripting capabilities. That changed in early 2023 with the introduction of the Ordinals protocol, which enabled individual satoshis (the smallest unit of Bitcoin) to be inscribed with data, including images, text, and code.
This innovation led to the creation of BRC-20, a token standard that allows for the issuance and transfer of fungible tokens directly on Bitcoin. Inspired by Ethereum’s ERC-20 model, BRC-20 opened the door for Bitcoin-native memecoins.
Projects like $ORDI demonstrated early demand for tokenized assets on Bitcoin. However, BRC-20 had limitations—most notably, inefficient transaction structures that created blockchain bloat ("junk UTXOs").
Enter the Runes protocol, launched in April 2024. Designed by Casey Rodarmor (creator of Ordinals), Runes improves upon BRC-20 by enabling efficient token creation and transfers without bloating the network. It uses a UTXO-based model similar to Bitcoin’s native architecture, making it more scalable and developer-friendly.
With Runes, Bitcoin evolved from a passive ledger into an active platform for meme culture and decentralized finance experiments—all while maintaining its security and decentralization.
Top Bitcoin Runes-Based Memecoins to Watch
As the Runes ecosystem grows, several standout memecoins have captured attention for their branding, community strength, and innovation.
DOG•GO•TO•THE•MOON (DOG)
DOG is the first meme-focused Rune and the third Rune ever created. Distributed via airdrop to holders of Runestone NFTs, DOG quickly became one of the most traded memecoins on Bitcoin.
Backed by prominent Ordinals influencer LeonidasNFT, DOG leverages familiar meme motifs—the space-bound dog theme resonates deeply within crypto culture. Its success highlights how influencer-driven narratives can shape market dynamics even on a traditionally conservative chain like Bitcoin.
PUPS•WORLD•PEACE (PUPS)
Launched initially on BRC-20 before migrating to Runes via a cross-chain bridge, PUPS is another early entrant in the Bitcoin memecoin space. As Rune #13, it benefits from early-mover advantage and strong community loyalty.
Notably, the team behind PUPS announced a bridge between Bitcoin and Solana, allowing users to move their tokens across ecosystems—a rare feat that enhances liquidity and utility.
BILLION•DOLLAR•CAT (BDC)
Also known as Billycat, this project offers a playful departure from dog-themed tokens. Inspired by internet cat culture and the ambition of reaching a billion-dollar valuation, BDC features a stylized “B” shaped like a cat—also symbolizing Bitcoin.
The project provides tools for users to create custom memes and profile pictures, fostering deeper engagement beyond trading.
SATOSHI•NAKAMOTO (Rune #6)
One of the earliest Runes ever minted, SATOSHI•NAKAMOTO pays homage to Bitcoin’s mysterious creator. Though not officially affiliated with any individual or entity, its social media presence suggests a mission to explore the philosophy and legacy of Bitcoin’s origins.
Positioned as a non-animal-themed memecoin, it appeals to purists and long-term HODLers who value Bitcoin’s foundational myths.
How to Buy Bitcoin Memecoins Using a Wallet
Acquiring Bitcoin-based memecoins requires a wallet that supports both BRC-20 and Runes standards. One such solution is Xverse, which offers seamless integration with Bitcoin’s emerging token ecosystems.
Here’s how to buy a Runes-based memecoin like DOG:
- Download and set up Xverse Wallet
Fund your wallet via fiat on-ramp or transfer BTC from an exchange or another wallet. - Tap “Swap”
Access the built-in swap feature powered by a Runes aggregation engine. - Select BTC as “From” currency
Choose Bitcoin as your payment method. - Search for your desired Rune under “To”
Use the search bar if the token isn’t listed immediately. - Enter amount and get quote
Compare pricing across multiple markets. - Review and confirm transaction
Once satisfied with the rate, finalize the swap.
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In minutes, you’ll own a piece of the Bitcoin memecoin movement—directly from your self-custody wallet.
Managing Your Bitcoin Memecoins Efficiently
Beyond purchasing, managing your holdings is crucial. Xverse simplifies this with native support for both BRC-20 and Runes tokens, allowing users to view balances, track transactions, and swap assets—all within a single interface.
Its integrated decentralized exchange (DEX) ensures you’re always getting competitive rates without leaving the app.
FAQ: Common Questions About Bitcoin Memecoins
Q: Are Bitcoin memecoins safe to invest in?
A: Like all speculative assets, Bitcoin memecoins carry high risk due to volatility and lack of fundamentals. Only invest what you can afford to lose.
Q: Can I mine Bitcoin memecoins?
A: No—most are distributed via minting or airdrops. You cannot mine them like Bitcoin. Instead, acquire them through swaps or marketplaces.
Q: How do Runes differ from BRC-20 tokens?
A: Runes are more efficient, using Bitcoin’s UTXO model to avoid blockchain bloat. They also offer better fee control and native transfer functionality compared to BRC-20.
Q: Do I need a special wallet for Bitcoin memecoins?
A: Yes—standard Bitcoin wallets don’t support BRC-20 or Runes. Use wallets like Xverse that explicitly support these standards.
Q: Can memecoins add value to Bitcoin’s ecosystem?
A: While controversial, they increase transaction activity and developer interest. Some see them as a gateway to broader adoption; others worry about network congestion.
Q: Will more memecoins launch on Bitcoin?
A: Absolutely. With Runes streamlining token creation, expect continued growth in both quantity and creativity of Bitcoin-based memes.
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The fusion of meme culture and Bitcoin represents a paradoxical yet powerful trend—one that blends humor with technological innovation. Whether you're here for fun or financial upside, understanding this shift is key to navigating the future of decentralized ecosystems.