The creator of the most expensive non-fungible token (NFT) ever sold, Mike Winkelmann, also known as Beeple, has entered the realm of profile-picture (PFP) NFTs for the first time. According to information from Etherscan, Beeple bought CryptoPunk #4953 on Tuesday in the afternoon for 113.7 ETH, or $208,000.The artist’s historic purchase of CryptoPunk marks a significant change in his NFT journey. Previously expressing interest in acquiring a CryptoPunk, he had never bought a PFP NFT before.
Beeple gave his fans advice on the top qualities to look for in a CryptoPunk last week, teasing his desire to possess one. Noah Davis, CryptoPunks Brand Lead, revealed Beeple’s NFT purchase through a text exchange. Beeple did not initially confirm the acquisition.
though I have commented on this space many times through the everydays, I have never actually purchased a single pfp until now…
in the market for a punk, any pro tips??? 👀 pic.twitter.com/ZexvIsfQox
— beeple (@beeple) July 24, 2023
Davis played a crucial role in Beeple’s $69 million “Everydays” sale at Christie’s in March 2021. On Tuesday night, Beeple shared “A Punk Is Born,” featuring himself as the new punk with CryptoPunk #4953. It was shown in the top right corner and on a small computer screen.
On Wednesday afternoon, Beeple lauded the impact of CryptoPunks on identity and ownership concepts. He called it a “historic work” in both technological and artistic terms. Beeple emphasized the influence of CryptoPunks and NFTs on the broader space. He expressed a keen interest in engaging more with the community.
Beeple PFP NFT Purchase Sparks Crypto Enthusiasm
According to information from CryptoSlam, Beeple’s purchase of CryptoPunk #4953 makes it the most expensive NFT sold in the previous day. The punk’s unique characteristics, such as its mohawk, clown-like green eyes, and red clown nose, add to its distinctiveness. According to the online marketplace OpenSea, just 2% of all CryptoPunks have the distinctive attribute of a red clown nose. There is currently just one other punk with this uncommon quality available on the market for around 91.7 ETH, or $169,800.
A PUNK IS BORN pic.twitter.com/3kkyLxyfbm
— beeple (@beeple) August 2, 2023
On February 4, 2022, collector Twill paid Beeple 109 ETH for the recently acquired CryptoPunk. Ether’s price at the time was $3,000. Due to the NFT’s significant appreciation, Twill likely incurred a substantial loss on the transaction.
Despite being a newcomer to the collecting world, Beeple is an accomplished digital artist. In Charleston, South Carolina, Beeple established a studio to unite digital art creators and collectors for live experiences. Additionally, the Crystal Bridges Museum in Arkansas is now hosting a first-ever American exhibition of his famed sculpture “Human One,” which sold for $29 million in 2021.
appreciate all the kind words on this new lal’ dude. thankful to have the opportunity to be a small part of this amazing community.
this is the first PFP i have ever bought and it is a really long time coming. from the time i learned of NFTs this project has always stood out… pic.twitter.com/JAQarijzeK
— beeple (@beeple) August 2, 2023
Beeple’s foray into the PFP NFT market adds to the fascinating evolution of digital art and NFTs. The crypto community eagerly anticipates his next artistic creations.
