Economist and outspoken Bitcoin critic Pеter Schiff’s sarcastic comments have unexpectedly led to the creation of a new cryptocurrency called USAcoin (USACOIN), which quickly amassed a multimillion-dollar market capitalization.
Its birth is said to have been sparked by Schiff’s suggestion that the U.S. government explore establishing a strategic “USAcoin reserve” as an alternative to a Bitcoin reserve.
“Just like Bitcoin, the supply can be capped at 21 million, but with an upgraded blockchain to make USAcoin actually viable for use in payments,” Schiff wrote.
As of this writing, USAcoin boasts a market capitalization of $3.34 million, with a reported trading volume of $5.79 million, according to data from CoinMarketCap.
Schiff distanced himself from any association with the newly created cryptocurrency. Responding to its launch, he clarified, “My post was sarcastic—don’t buy it.”
Related: Industry Celebrates the New $70M Domain Mogul But His Crypto Shadows Linger
Despite disavowing the coin, Schiff defended the underlying concept of creating a government-backed digital asset, reiterating his critique of Bitcoin as a strategic reserve. Moreover, Schiff has labeled Bitcoin a speculative asset and referred to it as “fool’s gold,” suggesting that its value is driven purely by market hype and irrational speculation.
The economist has often pointed to Bitcoin’s volatility as evidence that it cannot function as a rеliable store of value or medium of exchange. He argued that Bitcoin is unsuitable as a reserve asset for governmеnts or financial institutions due to its price swings and lack of tangible backing.
Schiff has been vocal in his opposition to proposals supporting Bitcoin as a national reserve asset, including those endorsed by Senator Cynthia Lummis. Senator Lummis, a Republican from Wyoming and a known Bitcoin advocate has championed the idea of integrating Bitcoin into U.S. financial strategy.
Related: Crypto Titans Bunker Down Now: Vitalik’s Austerity Vow, Binance $1B Bitcoin Shield
Lummis introduced a groundbreaking bill that would establish a national Bitcoin reserve for the United States. The legislation aims to position Bitcoin as a key component of the country’s strategic financial holdings, alongside traditional reserves such as gold and foreign currencies.
Schiff recently criticized Senаtor Lummis’ proposed legislation, noting that while the bill has gained notаble enthusiasm from the online cryptocurrency community, it appears to lack substantial backing within Congress.
Schiff’s strong position against Bitcoin-backed reserves reflects his broader skepticism of the digital asset, further fueling the ongoing debate between traditional financial advocates and cryptocurrency proponents.
