The Wildest Things People Have Bought with Bitcoin

Let’s look back at some of the most unexpected and downright bizarre purchases made with cryptocurrency.

10,000 BTC for Pizza: The Iconic Story That Started It All

Every crypto enthusiast knows this story, but it’s so legendary that it deserves a mention.

In 2010, programmer Laszlo Hanyecz spent 10,000 BTC on two pizzas. Back then, it was worth just about $25. Crypto fans often calculate how much Laszlo would have today if he hadn’t exchanged his coins for those pizzas in 2010. (Spoiler alert: He would be a billionaire by now and might even own his own cryptocurrency exchange). 

These two pizzas went down in history as the most expensive ever, and May 22 is now celebrated worldwide as Bitcoin Pizza Day. 

You’re probably thinking, “But what’s Laszlo up to these days?”

Laszlo is still an active bitcoiner with no regrets about his legendary purchase. He even receives Bitcoin donations from the community. He understands that he played a crucial role in Bitcoin’s history by being the first to use cryptocurrency as real money. 

Real Estate with Bitcoin: Buy Your Own Private Island

Buying real estate with cryptocurrency is no longer surprising. Today, many companies accept Bitcoin for apartments, houses, and land. But purchasing an entire island with crypto is truly remarkable. 

In 2024, a small island in the Lombok Archipelago, Indonesia, was listed for sale for Bitcoin, valued at €10.6 million. The island features a cottage, several bungalows, a mini-bar, a small pier, and even a turtle sanctuary.

Why just dream about escaping to a deserted island when you can buy one with cryptocurrency? Live out your Robinson Crusoe fantasy—with Wi-Fi included.

Tesla for Bitcoin: Approved by Elon Musk

Tesla has experimented with accepting Bitcoin—and even DOGE—for its electric cars several times over the years. Although it hasn’t become a permanent payment option, one thing is clear: people are buying Teslas with cryptocurrency.

Back in 2013, Lamborghini Newport Beach, a California car dealership, sold a used Tesla Model S for 91.4 BTC (worth about $103,000 at the time). It was one of the first recorded car purchases made with Bitcoin—a revolutionary move back then. The buyer clearly believed in the future of digital currency, but if they had held onto that Bitcoin, they’d be looking at around $9 million today. 

This historic transaction became a milestone in the crypto world. The dealership quickly leveraged the buzz by promoting the option to buy cars with digital assets, attracting crypto enthusiasts from all over the globe.

Pornhub and OnlyFans: Crypto for Exclusive Entertainment

The adult entertainment industry has turned to cryptocurrency primarily for its anonymity. Many cam sites and performers accept Bitcoin payments, giving clients peace of mind by keeping their transactions off bank statements. 

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Some high-profile models offer exclusive subscription plans that can only be paid for in cryptocurrency. For example, elite private shows often require payment in Monero, a digital currency known for its unmatched privacy features. 

Pornhub allows users to pay for premium subscriptions with Bitcoin. Some creators take it further, selling personal items—like lingerie and custom video messages—exclusively for BTC. And some fans go the extra mile, tipping in crypto for “special services” that you definitely wouldn’t want on your expense report.

On OnlyFans, it’s even easier. Third-party crypto services let users pay for subscriptions anonymously, without even sharing an email address. Some do it to keep their hobbies private, while others just think digital assets are best spent on spicy content.

Even so, proceed with caution—adult websites are becoming increasingly risky for crypto enthusiasts. Get the full story in our article, “Crypto Wallets Drained on Adult Sites Via Browser Exploit.”

Space Tourism: Pay for Your Trip to the Stars with Bitcoin

If you have enough BTC and a dream of traveling to space, you’re in luck. Virgin Galactic lets you buy a ticket to orbit using Bitcoin. Imagine taking a space tour paid for in crypto, floating weightlessly, while back on Earth, Bitcoin’s price is still bouncing up and down like a roller coaster. That’s the true meaning of “To the Moon”!

Virgin Galactic’s decision to accept Bitcoin is part of its strategy to attract crypto investors. This initiative was reportedly driven by Richard Branson himself. The British billionaire is betting big on Bitcoin’s future and is a strong advocate for the freedom it offers from government regulations.

Surprisingly, the first space ticket bought with Bitcoin didn’t go to a celebrity but to a flight attendant from Hawaii. She credits her early crypto investments for her newfound wealth.

Think that’s the end of bizarre crypto purchases? Not even close! 

With cryptocurrency, you can buy citizenship, pay for cosmetic surgery, or even organize an exclusive VIP party. For crypto investors, anything they’d prefer to keep away from the prying eyes of banks, insurance companies, or tax authorities is now just a transaction away.

From pizza to space travel, from cam models to digital real estate—people are spending cryptocurrency on the most unexpected and unusual things.

The crypto market may be volatile, but there will always be someone ready to make a purchase with Bitcoin. Who knows? Maybe tomorrow, you’ll decide to buy something extraordinary with crypto.