This FAQ explains everything you need to know about the bitcoin symbol (₿), including its meaning, how to type it, and where it is used. Here we cover the most common questions beginners ask about Bitcoin's iconic sign.

What is the bitcoin symbol?

The bitcoin symbol (₿) is a Unicode character used to represent the cryptocurrency Bitcoin in digital text and graphics. It looks like the letter B with two vertical strokes through it, inspired by similar currency signs like the dollar ($) and the euro (€). The symbol was added to the Unicode standard in 2017 as U+20BF, making it a recognized character across most modern devices and fonts.

Before the Unicode version, Bitcoin was commonly abbreviated as BTC or XBT. Today, you will see the ₿ sign in price tickers, wallets, and merchant listings, though the text abbreviation BTC is still widely used for typing convenience.

How do you type the bitcoin symbol on a keyboard?

There is no dedicated bitcoin symbol key on standard keyboards, but you can type it using keyboard shortcuts on most operating systems. On Windows, you can use Alt code 8383 (hold Alt and type 8383 on the numeric keypad). On macOS, press Option+20BF if your keyboard layout supports it, or use the Emoji and Symbols viewer.

Alternatively, copy and paste it from a reliable source:

  • On Windows: Alt+8383
  • On Mac: Option+20BF
  • On mobile: copy from a web page or use a character map

For most people, copying and pasting the symbol from a search result is the easiest method.

How do you insert the bitcoin symbol in Word or Google Docs?

In Microsoft Word and Google Docs, you can insert the bitcoin symbol using the Insert menu's special character feature. For Word, go to Insert > Symbol > More Symbols and choose the Bitcoin Sign (₿) from the currency symbols category. In Google Docs, click Insert > Special characters and search for bitcoin or paste the Unicode U+20BF.

You can also use a keyboard shortcut if you know the Alt code, but the graphical menu method is more reliable for beginners. Some fonts may not include the glyph, so if you don't see it, try changing the font to a common one like Arial or Segoe UI Symbol.

What is the difference between BTC and the bitcoin symbol (₿)?

BTC is a text abbreviation, while ₿ is a graphical currency symbol. BTC is easier to type and works in any text field, whereas ₿ is a Unicode character that requires font support. Both represent the same cryptocurrency, but BTC is more common in written communication because it is universally typable.

For example, exchanges and wallets often display prices as ₿ 1.5 or 1.5 BTC interchangeably. The ISO-like code BTC is not an official ISO 4217 currency code, but it has become a de facto standard in the crypto industry.

Why does Bitcoin have a symbol?

Bitcoin has a symbol to provide a short, recognizable visual identity similar to traditional currencies like the dollar or euro. A distinct symbol makes it easier to denote amounts in financial contexts, branding, and user interfaces without spelling out the full word every time.

The ₿ sign was designed to evoke the dollar sign while incorporating the B from Bitcoin. This helps the cryptocurrency stand out and feel familiar to people used to conventional money symbols.

Is the bitcoin symbol supported on all devices and platforms?

The bitcoin symbol is supported on most modern devices and platforms, but not every font includes it. Because Unicode only added U+20BF in 2017, older operating systems, apps, or Android/iOS versions may not render it correctly. When the glyph is missing, you may see a box, question mark, or fallback character.

In practice, the symbol works on recent Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android systems, as well as major web browsers. For maximum compatibility, many people still use the text abbreviation BTC in emails, chat messages, and documents.

How do you copy and paste the bitcoin symbol?

The easiest way to get the bitcoin symbol is to copy it from a reliable source and paste it into your document. Search for bitcoin symbol and copy the character (₿) from the search result or a trusted website. Then paste it with Ctrl+V (Windows) or Command+V (Mac).

If you need it frequently, add it to your clipboard history or use a text expansion tool. One common method is to copy the character to a document and keep it as a snippet. You can also use the Unicode code U+20BF in HTML or programming to display it dynamically.

What is the HTML code for the bitcoin symbol?

In HTML, you can display the bitcoin symbol using the numeric character reference ₿ or ₿. This will render as ₿ in a web browser if the selected font supports it. For example, you can write ₿ directly in your webpage.

If you're working with JavaScript, you can use the escape sequence \u20BF in a string. Even though support has improved, test your page on older browsers to ensure the character appears correctly.

Final Thoughts

The bitcoin symbol is a simple but powerful way to identify Bitcoin in digital finance. While it's not as universal as BTC text abbreviations, it adds visual clarity and brand recognition to wallets, charts, and articles.

As more devices and fonts support Unicode U+20BF, using the symbol in everyday communication will become even more reliable. For now, knowing how to type, copy, and display it is a valuable skill for anyone interested in Bitcoin.