Ycash Emerges from Zcash: A New Era for Privacy-Focused Digital Currency

Understanding the Fork: What is Ycash?

Ycash is the fresh face of digital currency, branching off from its parent, Zcash, like a rebellious teenager yearning for independence. Launched on July 19, Ycash boasts a total supply of 21 million coins, mirroring Zcash’s supply while embracing its own unique trajectory. The first block was mined at precisely 7:36:51 PM PDT, heralding the birth of this new blockchain network.

The Forking Details: The Mechanics Behind Ycash

Ycash took its first steps from the Zcash blockchain at block height 570,000, indicating a significant point of divergence. Unlike the typical family drama we see in typical forks, Ycash proudly stands apart from both the Electric Coin Company and the Zcash Foundation—it’s like starting a band without parental guidance!

Mining Made Easy

Upon its inception, Ycash proponents aimed to restore accessibility in mining, allowing enthusiasts to participate with commodity hardware. As Howard Loo expressed in a forum post back in April, this goal shifts focus back to the grassroots of blockchain mining—making it inclusive and achievable for more everyday users.

Distribution of Coins: A Generous Offering

In a twist that would make any generous uncle proud, Ycash plans to distribute 90% of its coins through mining. That’s right, most of the 21 million coins will flow into the community through the good old-fashioned means of mining, leaving just a modest 5% to support the Ycash Development Fund, managed by the Ycash Foundation itself.

What’s Next for Zcash and Ycash?

Meanwhile, the Electric Coin Company is busy hatching plans for a more scalable Zcash blockchain, with exciting advancements like sharding on the horizon—think of it as a high-tech gym for digital currencies, making it stronger and leaner.

Comparative Insights: Ycash vs. Zcash

• Total Supply: Both Ycash and Zcash share the same total supply cap of 21 million coins.
• Mining Equality: Ycash aims to democratize mining by allowing commodity hardware to play a significant role.
• Development Support: A portion of Ycash coins is earmarked for continued development, ensuring sustainability.

Conclusion: The Future of Privacy Coins

As more coins take flight—like Grin’s first hard fork—the blockchain space becomes an exciting place for privacy enthusiasts. In this evolving landscape, Ycash represents a thriving alternative, championing a wider pool of miners and community-driven development.