#### What is Unobtanium? Unobtanium (UNO) is a unique [cryptocurrency](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-cryptocurrency) that aims to stand out due to its scarcity and low [inflation](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-inflation). It is one of the oldest cryptocurrencies, having been launched in 2013 by an anonymous founder known as Blazr2. The total supply of UNO is capped at 250,000, which will be mined over a span of 30 years. This scarcity is what gives UNO its name, likening it to a rare, precious metal in the digital age. UNO was not pre-mined, meaning all coins come into existence through the process of [mining](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-mining), ensuring a fair launch and distribution. #### How does Unobtanium work? Unobtanium operates on a SHA256 [Proof of Work](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-proof-of-work-or-proof-of-stake) algorithm, similar to [Bitcoin](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-bitcoin). However, it distinguishes itself by being three times faster than Bitcoin, resulting in a secure, high-difficulty [blockchain](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-blockchain). The mining process started with a block reward of .001 for the first 2000 [blocks](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/block), and from block 2001, the reward was 1 kg per block, [halving](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-bitcoin-halving) every 100,000 blocks. This will continue until a minimum subsidy of .01 is reached after 15 halvings. UNO is also merge-mined with Bitcoin, which means miners can mine both Bitcoin and UNO simultaneously, increasing profitability. #### What are the potential use cases for Unobtanium? Unobtanium aims to serve as a rare store of wealth commodity, similar to precious metals, but in the digital realm. Its scarcity and fair distribution make it a highly collectible cryptocurrency. In its prime, UNO was used in thousands of shops through Coinpayments, and collectible UNO silver bars were issued. Despite the emergence of newer crypto projects, UNO's longevity, history, and stability have made it a favorite among cryptocurrency collectors. It's also worth noting that UNO's blockchain has been running smoothly for over a decade, demonstrating its reliability. #### What is the history of Unobtanium? Unobtanium was launched in 2013 by an anonymous founder known as Blazr2. It was one of the earliest cryptocurrencies and was designed to be a rare, digital commodity. The launch was pre-announced on Bitcointalk, ensuring a fair start with no pre-mining. In its heyday, UNO was ranked among the top 50 cryptocurrencies on CoinMarketCap and had a vibrant community that collected and donated UNO to people doing good in the world. Over time, the community dispersed into other cryptocurrency projects, but a dedicated group of volunteers continues to monitor the Unobtanium blockchain and address any detected issues.