Table of Contents
Introduction
NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) have taken the world by storm, often accompanied by the belief that “digital assets last forever” and stories of new-age art selling for astronomical prices. But once you actually start minting or collecting NFTs, you might find yourself thinking, “Wait, this isn’t quite what I expected…”
In this article, I’ll share the real state of NFTs, how to enjoy them casually, and the difference in experience between issuing a single-edition NFT or multiple editions.
Are NFTs Really “Forever”?
NFTs are designed to prove unique digital ownership on the blockchain. However, what lasts forever is only the ownership certificate (the token itself).
The actual artwork image or metadata is often stored on external storage like IPFS or Arweave, which doesn’t guarantee that your NFT will always be visible or accessible.
- On IPFS, data can disappear if no one is “pinning” it.
- Arweave claims to store data for “up to 200 years,” but this depends on the network’s sustainability and economic incentives.
- Marketplace changes (like on OpenSea) can cause listings or artwork display to vanish.
In short, NFTs are not truly “forever”.
The Risks and Regrets of Expensive NFTs
During the NFT boom, high-priced NFTs made headlines. But imagine spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on an NFT, only for the artwork to disappear or the value to plummet.
You’d likely feel disappointed, maybe even cheated or regretful.
NFTs are still technically and economically unstable. High prices amplify the risk of disappointment and conflict.
Enjoying NFTs at a Casual Price
That’s why I recommend issuing and buying NFTs at a price you’re comfortable losing.
- You can collect them as keepsakes, to support creators, or as fan memorabilia.
- If the price is low, you won’t regret it, no matter what happens to the NFT’s value.
- There’s less stress and fewer disputes over money or unmet expectations.
- Creators won’t feel pressured to “maintain value” or meet investment-like demands.
NFTs are best enjoyed as “proof of uniqueness” or “digital memories” within a comfortable, casual price range.
1-of-1 vs. Multiple Editions: Which Is More Fun?
When minting NFTs, you can choose to create a 1-of-1 (single edition) or multiple editions (e.g., 20 copies). Each approach offers a different experience.
The Appeal of 1-of-1 NFTs
- Provides a sense of true uniqueness and exclusivity.
- Satisfies collectors seeking something no one else owns.
- Can foster a close relationship between creator and owner.
However…
Since NFTs and their artwork aren’t guaranteed to last forever, if your one-of-a-kind NFT disappears, the sense of loss can be even greater.
The Appeal of Multiple Editions (e.g., 20)
- Creates a sense of community and shared experience among holders.
- More fans can join in and support the creator.
- Even if the NFT or artwork disappears, the shared memories and collective experience remain.
- While not as rare as a 1-of-1, the fun and satisfaction are spread among more people.
Which Should You Choose?
- Want to enjoy NFTs with friends and build a supportive community? → Multiple Editions (e.g., 20)
- Want the thrill of owning something truly unique? → 1-of-1
Given that NFTs aren’t truly permanent, opting for multiple editions can lead to less regret and a more positive, communal experience.
Conclusion
NFTs shouldn’t be about overblown expectations of permanence or investment value.
They’re best enjoyed as tools for “support,” “commemoration,” and “connection.”
When you keep prices low, NFTs become fun mementos or tokens of support, not sources of stress or disappointment.
And if you want to maximize the joy and memories, consider issuing multiple editions so more people can join in.
NFTs can-and should-be more free, more casual, and more fun.
Let’s keep enjoying NFTs in a way that feels right for you.
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