Hal Finney's 2009 Post Signals Bitcoin Node Launch, A Historic Milestone
Written by Ohris M. Greyoon, Blockchain & Crypto Expert
Source: Coinmarketcap
Updated: Jan 11 2026- Historic Moment: On January 10, 2009, Hal Finney's post stating “Running Bitcoin” marked the first public confirmation of a Bitcoin node operating beyond its creator, establishing a significant milestone in cryptocurrency history.
- First Transaction: Finney was not only the first person to run a Bitcoin node but also the recipient of the network's first transaction, receiving ten BTC from Satoshi Nakamoto, which at current market prices is valued at over $900,000, highlighting the historical significance of early Bitcoin transactions.
- Identity Speculation: Speculation around Finney potentially being Satoshi Nakamoto intensified in 2024 with the HBO documentary “Money Electric: The Bitcoin Mystery,” although evidence suggests inconsistencies, reflecting the complexities surrounding the identity of Bitcoin's creator.
- Legacy Impact: Despite passing away in 2014, Finney's early contributions remain foundational to Bitcoin's history, symbolizing the inception of a decentralized experiment and reminding us how Bitcoin evolved through the efforts of a few dedicated individuals.
About the author
Ohris M. Greyoon
Ohris M. Greyoon holds a Master’s in Computer Science from MIT and has 10 years of experience in blockchain technology and cryptocurrency markets. A pioneer in decentralized finance (DeFi) analysis, he leads Intellectia’s Crypto News, offering cutting-edge insights into digital assets.
