Following the recent inactivity surrounding dormancy, another significant event from Bitcoin’s history has emerged. Three wallets that were created back in 2013 have finally awakened from their lengthy slumber, transferring a total of 300 BTC—currently worth over $35 million—as if it were mere pocket change.
From $40K to Over $35 Million: Bitcoin Transactions from 2013 After a Decade of Dormancy
According to data from btcparser.com, between block heights 915227 and 915232, three P2PKH (Pay-to-Public-Key-Hash) wallets made their first move since September 2, 2013. At that time, Bitcoin was valued at only $135 each, meaning the total value of these coins was approximately $40,500.
Fast forward to today; with current valuations exceeding $35 million, this stash has experienced an astonishing increase of 86,419% over the past twelve years. Each wallet transferred exactly 100 BTC into a single P2SH (Pay-to-Script-Hash) address linked to Bitstamp. This suggests that the coins may either be held in exchange custody or—more likely—are being sold for substantial profits or exchanged for altcoins on the platform.
A number of dormant bitcoin wallets have been activated recently in early 2025; many coins are likely being liquidated or traded for alternative digital assets. However, selling isn’t the sole reason behind this activity this year. Several long-dormant wallets associated with traditional P2PKH addresses are being converted into more modern formats as a precaution against potential threats posed by quantum computing.
Both P2PKH and P2PK addresses reveal their public keys on-chain once any funds are spent—a point where vulnerability arises. Quantum algorithms like Shor’s could theoretically derive private keys from exposed public keys within minutes. To mitigate such risks, long-term holders—including those who possess bitcoins dating back to its inception—are shifting their assets into newer address types designed to withstand quantum attacks.
Given that all three hundred bitcoins moved directly into Bitstamp’s system indicates a strong likelihood of liquidation rather than simple maintenance activities. While concerns about quantum computing explain some movements among dormant wallets this year, this particular instance appears much more focused on transactions rather than just housekeeping efforts within old accounts.