What’s the Difference Between a Coin and a Token in Crypto?

If you’re new to crypto, you’ve probably noticed people use the words “coin” and “token” almost interchangeably. But here’s the truth: they’re not the same thing.

Understanding the difference between a moneda y un ficha is one of the first steps toward learning how the crypto ecosystem works, and it will help you spot stronger projects, avoid scams, and trade with more confidence.


💰 What Is a Coin?

A moneda is a cryptocurrency that runs on its own blockchain.

  • Bitcoin (BTC) is the most famous example, it lives on the Bitcoin blockchain.
  • Ethereum (ETH) runs on the Ethereum blockchain.
  • Solana (SOL) runs on the Solana blockchain.

Key Features of Coins:

  • Native to their blockchain.
  • Used as digital money (store of value, medium of exchange).
  • Often pay network fees (gas) or reward miners/validators.

👉 Think of a coin as the “native currency” of a blockchain.


🪙 What Is a Token?

A ficha is a cryptocurrency that’s built on top of another blockchain.

  • Uniswap (UNI) is a token built on Ethereum.
  • Enlace en cadena (LINK) is also an Ethereum-based token.
  • USDT (Tether) exists as tokens on multiple chains (Ethereum, Tron, Solana).

Key Features of Tokens:

  • Don’t have their own blockchain.
  • Depend on an existing chain (like Ethereum, Solana, BNB Chain).
  • Can represent more than money, governance rights, stablecoins, or even digital ownership of real-world assets.

👉 Think of a token as an app built on top of an operating system (the blockchain).


🔑 Coins vs Tokens: The Big Differences

CaracterísticaMonedaFicha
BlockchainHas its ownBuilt on another blockchain
UtilizaciónPayments, network fees, stakingUtilities, governance, stablecoins
EjemplosBTC, ETH, SOL, ADAUNI, LINK, USDT, APE
IndependenceSelf-contained ecosystemsDependent on host blockchain

📌 Why This Matters for Traders

Understanding the difference helps you:

  • Spot utility: Coins are usually the backbone of blockchains. Tokens are more niche, often tied to specific dApps or projects.
  • Manage risk: Tokens are easier to create, so scams and “rug pulls” happen more often in token projects.
  • Follow narratives: In bull runs, coins like BTC and ETH usually pump first, then tokens in hot sectors (DeFi, AI, RWAs) follow.

✅ Reflexiones finales

The easiest way to remember it is:

  • Coins = run their own blockchain.
  • Tokens = run on someone else’s blockchain.

Both play important roles in the crypto economy, but coins tend to be more established, while tokens bring innovation and experimentation.


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En Parqué EPIQ, we simplify crypto for beginners by showing you:

  • The difference between strong coins vs risky tokens.
  • Daily breakdowns of which sectors are heating up.
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Descargo de responsabilidad: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as financial advice.

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Soy EQ, un trader con más de una década de experiencia en el trading. Desde 2021, he ayudado a más de 1.400 personas a convertirse en traders seguros y rentables. Lidero el EPIQ Trading Floor, una próspera comunidad centrada en la educación, las señales y las herramientas para el éxito en el trading. Aparte del trading, me apasionan los negocios, el marketing, la forma física y la creación de empresas creativas en los medios de comunicación y los juegos. Creo en el poder de la comunidad y en seguir avanzando para crecer personal y profesionalmente.

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