Ethereum Merge Sparks First NFT Mint on PoS Network

The long-awaited Ethereum Merge has finally occurred, igniting excitement within the crypto community. Just moments after this historic event, one user minted the very first nonfungible token (NFT) on the newly established proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism.

The Merge officially took place on Thursday, September 15, at 6:42 am UTC, marking block number 15537393. Shortly after, at 07:08 am UTC, an announcement was made regarding the mint and sale of the NFT, which features an iconic panda face.

“Someone just paid 36 ETH in gas to mint this,” tweeted the user Cirrus, showcasing the first NFT minted on the proof-of-stake network.

The NFT was quickly purchased for 36 Ether (ETH), demonstrating the community’s enthusiasm for the new blockchain. Following the announcement, reactions rolled in on Crypto Twitter, ranging from comments about “questionable decision making” to those expressing excitement, with one user even asking if this new Merge panda would become as iconic as the Bored Ape Yacht Club personas.

A New Beginning for NFTs

As the news of the first PoS NFT mint spread, a flurry of other achievements soon followed. Sheldon Evans, founder of the Web3 lifestyle brand Bloom, took to Twitter to share that his brand had created the first official NFT collection to mint on the PoS network.

“We are officially the first NFT collection on the #Ethereum proof-of-stake chain. Airdrop of the rest of the tokens will happen later today,” tweeted Evans.

The NFT frenzy didn’t stop there; many members of the Ethereum community were also keen to display their initial transactions on the new system. One user proudly showcased their first significant purchase using the newly upgraded network.

“Update: I have made my first great purchase on this beautiful proof-of-stake network,” the user tweeted.

Additionally, ConsenSys, the blockchain software firm led by Joseph Lubin, encouraged community members to make their inaugural transaction on the PoS network by minting commemorative NFTs celebrating the Merge.

Creative Expressions Following the Merge

The Merge has also sparked a wave of creative expressions from prominent figures in the crypto space. Renowned digital artist Beeple even created an illustration inspired by the Merge, depicting a large Ethereum logo gradually forming, supported by scientists.

Moreover, members of the Ethereum Foundation showcased their creativity by composing and performing a song dedicated to this monumental event.