Bitcoin's Dormant Coins Move in 2026, 553.59 BTC Shifted

Dormant Bitcoin coins, untouched for a decade or more, are moving at an unusual pace in 2026, according to data from Galaxy Research. A chart published by the firm shows a notable increase in the movement of 10-year-and-older coins this year, with a visible band of activity in the 2026 data. Although the year is not complete, the oldest cohort is already more active than in most previous years. In recent weeks, six wallets dormant since 2011, 2012, and 2014 moved a total of 553.59 BTC, valued at approximately 40150000 dollars, between August 16 and August 26. One wallet transferred 212 BTC, worth about 13660000 dollars, that had been inactive since August 2012, representing a gain of roughly 557640%. Another wallet moved 10.74 BTC, around 692000 dollars, dormant since June 2011. The most significant movement involved 40 BTC last held in May 2012, which achieved a gain of 1535911%. These movements are noteworthy as few early Bitcoin holders still control their keys, indicating potential long-dormant supply returning to circulation. The reawakened wallets include those linked to the Noah Doe case, which seeks to declare dormant addresses as abandoned property. Additionally, around 233000 BTC left long-term wallets during the Coldcard hardware-wallet exploit. The market remains volatile, with Bitcoin dropping to 76877 dollars after comments from Federal Reserve Chair Kevin Warsh about inflation. However, U.S. spot Bitcoin ETFs have seen 2.8 billion dollars in inflows over eight consecutive days, indicating a supportive long-term backdrop.