Definition
Ordinals is a convention for assigning numbers to individual satoshis and tracking them as Bitcoin transactions move value between outputs. Its numbering follows the order in which satoshis are mined, while transfer interpretation uses defined ordering rules. This creates a way for Ordinals-aware software to discuss particular satoshis rather than only aggregate bitcoin amounts. Inscriptions can associate content with these tracked units, but numbering and inscription content are distinct parts of the ecosystem. Ordinal identifiers are not a new native coin, and Bitcoin consensus does not assign different monetary denominations to satoshis based on their ordinal number. Marketplaces may attribute collectible significance to certain histories or categories, but that significance is separate from Bitcoin's base accounting rules. Using suitable wallet software matters because an ordinary transaction can move a tracked satoshi according to the convention even when the user was thinking only about its BTC value.
Source references
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