$442M Bitcoin Whale Stirs After 14 Years, Citing Concerns Over Quantum Computing

Dormant Bitcoin Whale Moves $16.6M After 14 Years Amid Quantum Fears

A Bitcoin (BTC) wallet inactive for 14 years has moved 150 BTC, worth roughly $16.6 million, marking its first activity since 2011. Analysts are weighing whether the transfer signals profit-taking, a rotation, or precautionary security measures.

The wallet, identified as 18eY9o, holds a total of 4,000 BTC (around $442 million), mined in 2009 and consolidated two years later. On-chain data suggest that early “OG” holders are increasingly realizing gains, especially as BTC surpasses psychological milestones like $100,000. Earlier this year, another long-dormant whale sold approximately 80,000 BTC through Galaxy Digital.

Some experts point to quantum computing risks as a possible driver. Bitcoin OG Nicholas Gregory told CoinDesk:

“Coins from this era may be vulnerable if public keys were exposed. Moving them to new addresses could safeguard against potential quantum attacks.”

The activity highlights both profit-taking and evolving security strategies among Bitcoin’s earliest adopters.