Coinbase is making a significant move in the crypto space with the launch of Base, its new Layer-2 blockchain solution. To mark this important upgrade, the company released a commemorative NFT collection called "Base, Introduced," initially offered as a free mint. The response was overwhelming, with over 260,000 NFTs minted, making it the top gas burner on the network that day.
The Layer-2 solution, powered by Optimism technology, aims to bring cheaper transactions and better scalability to users and developers. According to Coinbase, the goal is to help bring the next billion users into the Web3 ecosystem through improved accessibility and lower costs.
While developers are already encouraged to start building on Base, the exact timeline for its mainnet launch remains unannounced. The NFT collection serves as a digital milestone, allowing participants to own a piece of this historic moment in blockchain development.
Why the Mint Period Was Extended
Originally scheduled to last only 72 hours, the free mint period for the "Base, Introduced" NFT was unexpectedly extended by an additional seven days. This decision surprised many in the NFT community, especially those who had rushed to mint under the initial deadline.
Some users expressed frustration on social media, citing concerns over fairness and potential technical issues. However, Coinbase explained that the extension was intended to include participants from the Ethereum Denver event and to allow more people to join the celebration.
Despite some reports of bugs and high gas fees—sometimes reaching up to $10—the mint continued to see strong engagement, with thousands of new claims per hour even after the first wave.
Community Reaction to the Extension
The extension sparked mixed reactions. While some appreciated the opportunity to mint without time pressure, others felt that changing the rules mid-process was unfair.
Critics compared the move to increasing the supply of a limited NFT collection after launch, suggesting it could devalue the digital asset. Others, however, acknowledged the broader intent behind the decision—to maximize participation and visibility for Base’s debut.
What remains clear is that high user interest reflects growing public engagement with both NFTs and Layer-2 solutions. If you're curious about how Layer-2 technologies are shaping the future of digital ownership, you can explore more about blockchain advancements here.
Understanding Base and Its Goals
Base is designed as a scalable, low-cost, and developer-friendly Ethereum Layer-2 network. It leverages Optimism’s OP Stack, which helps improve transaction speed while reducing fees.
One of Base’s core missions is to onboard more users into the crypto economy by simplifying the user experience and increasing interoperability across decentralized applications (dApps). Unlike some earlier blockchain solutions, Base is built with both developers and end-users in mind.
Although the network is not yet fully decentralized, Coinbase has stated its commitment to progressively moving toward a more open and community-governed model over time.
How to Participate in the NFT Mint
The "Base, Introduced" NFT is available for minting on Zora, a popular NFT minting platform. Unlike typical drops on Coinbase’s own NFT marketplace, this collection is hosted externally.
To claim the NFT, users need to connect a compatible crypto wallet, such as MetaMask or Coinbase Wallet, to the Zora platform. Although the mint itself is free, users are responsible for covering Ethereum gas fees, which can fluctuate based on network demand.
It’s worth noting that this NFT is not just a collectible—it also symbolizes early support for a network that aims to become a cornerstone of the Web3 infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of minting the "Base, Introduced" NFT?
The NFT is free to mint, but users must pay Ethereum gas fees, which vary depending on network congestion. These fees typically range between $5 and $10 per transaction.
Do I need a Coinbase account to mint this NFT?
No, you don’t need a Coinbase account. However, you will need a Web3 wallet like MetaMask or Coinbase Wallet to connect to Zora, the platform hosting the mint.
Why did Coinbase extend the minting period?
Coinbase extended the deadline to allow more people to participate—especially those attending the Ethereum Denver event—and to celebrate the Base launch with a broader community.
Will Base have its own token?
Coinbase initially considered launching a native token for Base but has since decided against it—at least for the time being. The focus remains on scaling and adoption.
Is Base decentralized?
Not yet. Base is still in its early stages and is under the control of Coinbase. However, the company has expressed plans to gradually decentralize the network in the future.
Why was the NFT hosted on Zora and not on Coinbase NFT?
This decision may reflect Coinbase’s strategy to integrate with the broader Web3 ecosystem. It’s also worth noting that interest in Coinbase’s native NFT marketplace has declined recently.
Why This Launch Matters
The introduction of Base represents a major step in Coinbase’s effort to expand its ecosystem beyond a typical exchange. By entering the Layer-2 space, Coinbase is positioning itself as a infrastructure provider rather than just a trading platform.
This move could significantly lower barriers to entry for new users, making activities like NFT minting, gaming, and DeFi participation more affordable and efficient.
For those interested in the evolving landscape of blockchain technology, understanding the role of Layer-2 networks is essential. To discover tools that help you navigate this space, consider exploring platforms that offer real-time analytics and educational resources.
Base is more than just a technical upgrade—it’s part of a larger vision to make blockchain technology more accessible, sustainable, and integrated into everyday digital experiences.