Where to Buy Bitcoin in 2015

In 2015, buying Bitcoin was a burgeoning yet somewhat complex process, given the relative novelty and volatility of the cryptocurrency market at the time. If you were interested in purchasing Bitcoin during this period, you had several options, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. Here’s a comprehensive look at where and how you could have acquired Bitcoin in 2015.

1. Cryptocurrency Exchanges
In 2015, cryptocurrency exchanges were among the most popular venues for buying Bitcoin. These platforms allowed users to trade Bitcoin for fiat currencies like USD, EUR, or GBP. Some of the most notable exchanges at the time included:

• Coinbase: Founded in 2012, Coinbase was one of the most user-friendly platforms for beginners. It provided a simple interface for buying Bitcoin with credit cards or bank transfers and was known for its security measures and ease of use. By 2015, Coinbase had gained significant traction, making it a preferred choice for many.

• Bitstamp: Established in 2011, Bitstamp was another major player in the Bitcoin exchange market. It was known for its reliability and relatively low fees. Bitstamp was popular among more experienced traders due to its advanced features and trading options.

• BTC-e: This exchange was known for its low fees and broad range of cryptocurrency offerings. However, it was less regulated compared to Coinbase and Bitstamp, which could be a consideration for potential buyers.

2. Peer-to-Peer Platforms
Peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms allowed users to buy Bitcoin directly from other individuals. This method offered more privacy and, in some cases, better rates. Popular P2P platforms in 2015 included:

• LocalBitcoins: LocalBitcoins was a popular platform where users could create ads to buy or sell Bitcoin. The platform facilitated transactions between buyers and sellers and provided an escrow service to protect both parties. LocalBitcoins was favored for its flexibility and the ability to find local sellers or buyers.

• Paxful: Similar to LocalBitcoins, Paxful offered a P2P marketplace for Bitcoin transactions. It supported various payment methods, including gift cards and bank transfers, which made it accessible to a wide range of users.

3. Bitcoin ATMs
Bitcoin ATMs were a more physical way to buy Bitcoin. These machines allowed users to purchase Bitcoin using cash or debit cards. In 2015, Bitcoin ATMs were relatively new but rapidly expanding in various cities around the world. They were particularly useful for those who preferred to make purchases in person rather than online.

4. Bitcoin Meetups and Events
Attending Bitcoin meetups and events was another avenue for acquiring Bitcoin. These gatherings often included individuals who were willing to sell Bitcoin in exchange for fiat currency. While this method was less conventional, it provided opportunities for networking and learning about Bitcoin.

5. Bitcoin Brokers
Bitcoin brokers acted as intermediaries between buyers and the cryptocurrency market. They offered a more straightforward purchasing process compared to exchanges but often came with higher fees. Some brokers in 2015 included:

• CoinMama: CoinMama allowed users to buy Bitcoin with credit cards. It was known for its high fees but provided a convenient option for quick purchases.

• Bitit: Bitit offered a range of payment options, including credit cards and cash vouchers. It aimed to make Bitcoin accessible to a broader audience, despite the higher costs associated with its services.

Security and Risk Considerations
When buying Bitcoin in 2015, security was a significant concern. The cryptocurrency market was still developing, and scams or fraud were not uncommon. To mitigate risks, users should:

• Research the Platform: Ensure the exchange or platform has a good reputation and reviews. Check for security features such as two-factor authentication (2FA) and cold storage for funds.

• Be Wary of Scams: Especially on P2P platforms, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Verify the credibility of sellers and consider using escrow services to protect your transactions.

• Secure Your Wallet: Once you’ve acquired Bitcoin, ensure it is stored securely. Use reputable wallets and consider hardware wallets for added security.

Conclusion
In 2015, buying Bitcoin involved navigating a relatively nascent market with a range of options from exchanges to P2P platforms and ATMs. Each method had its own benefits and drawbacks, and choosing the right one depended on factors such as convenience, fees, and security. As Bitcoin and the cryptocurrency market continued to evolve, these options would expand and become more sophisticated.

Table of Popular Exchanges in 2015

Exchange	Established	Notable Features	Fees
Coinbase	2012	User-friendly, secure	Transaction fees
Bitstamp	2011	Reliable, advanced features	Trading fees
BTC-e	2011	Low fees, broad range of cryptocurrencies	Low trading fees

Table of Peer-to-Peer Platforms in 2015

Platform	Features	Payment Methods
LocalBitcoins	Escrow service, local transactions	Bank transfers, cash, various
Paxful	Wide range of payment methods, flexible deals	Gift cards, bank transfers, cash

By understanding these options and considerations, you could make informed decisions about buying Bitcoin in 2015 and better navigate the evolving cryptocurrency landscape.