03/31/2022
By now, you are likely aware that NFT stands for Non-Fungible Token. But what does non-fungible even mean, and are there fungible tokens too? Let’s find out:
If something is fungible, it means it can be readily exchanged for another of the same kind. When something is non-fungible, it’s completely unique, unable to be replaced with something else.
Cryptocurrencies are considered fungible. If you were to trade one Bitcoin for another Bitcoin, you’d end up with the exact same token with the same value. But for example, when you trade one NFT (non-fungible token) for another, you get a whole new digital item with no duplicates on the blockchain.
In real life, fungible assets include many items with set value in the global market, including gold and of course, paper dollar bills. When you exchange one-dollar bill for another, you’ve essentially received the same thing, retaining the ability to spend it the same way you would with your old dollar bill. Fungibility!
On the flip side, IRL non-fungible assets include things like art, gems, and other unique collectibles that are incapable of duplication. These non-fungible assets don’t have a declared or fixed value in the global market. Often, the person who aims to sell a non-fungible item sets the price.
We hope this helped clear up this sometimes-confusing topic in the world of web3. Anything you want to share about fungibility and non-fungibility? Let us know!