Rapper 50 Cent (Curtis James Jackson III) has reportedly discovered that he owns nearly 700 Bitcoin from his 2014 album sales—a stash he had completely forgotten. With Bitcoin's price surging to around $11,000 per coin in early 2018, the forgotten digital assets are now worth an estimated $7.7 million.
A Surprise Windfall
According to a report from TMZ, the rapper offered Bitcoin as a payment option for his fifth studio album Animal Ambition, released in 2014. At the time, Bitcoin was trading at approximately $650, and the album sold only 124,000 copies, charting at No. 4 on Billboard. Through these sales, 50 Cent accumulated close to 700 Bitcoin, then valued at roughly $400,000. However, the rapper apparently forgot about the digital currency until recently.
From $400K to $7.7M: Four-Year Return
Fast-forward four years to January 2018: Bitcoin has skyrocketed to about $11,000 per coin. At that price, 50 Cent's 700 Bitcoin would be worth a staggering $7.7 million—a return of over 18x on his initial crypto earnings. The artist took to Instagram with a playful response: “I’m a keep it real I forgot I did that shit. Lol.” He added, “Not bad for a kid from the South Side,” and “I’m so proud of me.”
Past Business Successes and Bankruptcy
50 Cent is no stranger to financial ups and downs. He previously earned nearly $100 million from a deal with Glaceau, Coca-Cola, and Vitamin Water. Yet, just five years later, he filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Connecticut federal court, claiming greater liabilities than assets. This newfound Bitcoin windfall could provide a significant financial buffer, though its authenticity remains debated.
Real Story or Marketing Gimmick?
Skeptics question the veracity of the story. 50 Cent is currently promoting a new album, Street King Immortal, and has released a single. His Instagram post also teased: “A little bit coin [sic] anyone? LOL. l know l make you sick but excuse me I’m getting to the bag.” Some interpret these comments as a clever publicity stunt to generate buzz for his upcoming project. The music industry is no stranger to hype, so whether the rapper truly holds 700 Bitcoin—or simply used the narrative for marketing—remains unclear.
Regardless of the truth, the story highlights the immense potential gains for early Bitcoin adopters and the importance of keeping track of digital assets, especially when their value can multiply exponentially over time.