James Howells, an early Bitcoin miner who accidentally discarded a fortune. Back in 2009, when Bitcoin was still in its infancy, Howells began mining the cryptocurrency on his laptop, amassing a total of approximately 7,500 BTC.
However, as Bitcoin rose in prominence in 2013, Howells had already ceased mining and carelessly left the laptop tucked away in a drawer. During a routine clear-out, the laptop was unknowingly thrown away, sending it on a fateful journey to a landfill. Sadly, by the time Howells realized his blunder, the discarded hard drive contained Bitcoin valued in the millions.
Presently, at today’s Bitcoin prices, the lost hard drive could hold a staggering $190 million. Despite Howells’ efforts to recover the device, offering to donate a portion of the recovered Bitcoin to his city, all requests have been consistently denied for reasons concerning both the environment and funding.
It is estimated that approximately 20% of all mined Bitcoin is lost or inaccessible, contributing to the overall increase in value for existing Bitcoin holders.
The buried treasure remains entombed somewhere within the landfill, with each passing day reducing the chances of recovery.
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