Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have their origins in the evolution of blockchain technology, which first attracted global attention in 2009 with the introduction of the cryptocurrency Bitcoin. However, it took several years for the concept of leveraging blockchain to create unique, verifiable digital assets to emerge.

There are several NFTs which help to grow this market.

1. CryptoKitties

CryptoKitties, a blockchain-based game in which users could buy, sell, and breed virtual cats, invented Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) in 2012. NFTs demonstrated that they might be used to digitally represent unique, collectible things.

2. Cryptopunks

NFTs have a long history, dating back to the early days of bitcoin and blockchain technology. Since the debut of CryptoPunks in 2017, NFTs have continued to expand and evolve, with new and innovative projects appearing in a variety of areas.

3. Beeple’s Artwork

Artist Beeple sold a digital artwork for $67 million at a Christie's auction in 2018, marking the first time NFTs were used in the art industry.

Rise of an NFTs

NFTs have been popular in the art world, as well as the music and sports industries. The overall value of NFT sales hit $2.6 billion in 2021, a more than 2,600% increase over the previous year.

1. NFTs in the Music Industry

The music industry has also embraced NFTs, with artists such as Grimes, Kings of Leon, and DJ 3LAU using NFTs to sell unique, collectible digital items. In one high-profile example, Grimes sold an NFT for $5.8 million, making it the highest-selling NFT in the music industry to date.

2. NFTs in Sports and Gaming

NFTs are also making waves in sports and gaming. For example, the NBA has partnered with Dapper Labs to launch NBA Top Shot, a collectible platform where fans can buy, sell, and trade NBA highlights as NFTs. NBA Top Shot has amassed a massive following, with over $700 million in sales and over 800,000 registered users. Some of the most valuable NBA Top Shot moments have fetched more than $200,000.

Final Words

The adoption of NFTs is still in its early stages and is projected to become a major force in the world of digital asset ownership and commerce.

References

• What are NFTs and how do they work?

• CryptoKitties Transaction Network Analysis: The Rise and Fall of the First Blockchain Game Mania

• CryptoPunks, CryptoCats and CryptoKitties: How They Started and How They’re Going

• Digital artwork sells for record $69 million at Christie's first NFT auction

• Grimes made $5.8 million in under 20 minutes selling crypto-based artwork

• Dapper Labs' NBA Top Shot Has Crossed the Million-User Mark

• Grimes releases her debut NFT collection 'WarNymph'.

• NFT Yourself

• 3LAU NFTs