Bitcoin Foundation co-founder and former BitInstant CEO Charlie Shrem has announced the auction of 12 unique items tied to his early involvement in Bitcoin and the Silk Road marketplace.
Shrem’s auction commemorates early release
The auction, conducted through Scarce City, coincides with the 10-year anniversary of Shrem’s early release from federal prison.
Among the notable items are a personal journal from his 2014-2015 incarceration, a Bitcoin-themed ring, and a signed first issue of Bitcoin Magazine from May 2012.
Shrem described the collection as more than personal memorabilia, stating:
“These things aren’t just mine, they are the scars and the sparks of the early Bitcoin days and its first fire.”
Silk Road ties and legal history
Shrem was arrested in January 2014 for his role in facilitating the sale of over $1 million in bitcoin to Silk Road users.
The U.S. government had previously shut down the Silk Road marketplace in October 2013, following the arrest of its founder, Ross Ulbricht.
Shrem pleaded guilty, receiving a two-year sentence but was released early in September 2015.
Silk Road-related seizures continue
The legacy of Silk Road persists in ongoing law enforcement actions.
In July, a UK National Crime Agency officer was sentenced to over five years for stealing 50 BTC linked to Silk Road 2.0. In the U.S., authorities seized more than 50,000 BTC from James Zhong in 2021, who had concealed the bitcoin in a popcorn tin.
Collectibles from a pivotal era
Shrem’s auction highlights the enduring historical significance of Bitcoin’s early days and the ongoing fascination with artifacts from that period.
Interested parties can view the auction details on the Scarce City marketplace.
