Satoshi Statue Theft in Lugano: Recovered and Under Repair

The Satoshi Nakamoto statue, created by Italian artist Valentina Picozzi, was damaged and discarded into Lake Lugano. Commissioned by Satoshigallery, it was retrieved by local authorities and the Satoshigallery group for restoration. The statue’s theft occurred amid Swiss National Day celebrations. Aron Clementi, among other community leaders, highlighted the community’s swift response and ongoing investigation efforts to prevent future incidents.

Aron Clementi, Founder, Elysium Lab, “Someone (paper hand) last night stole and broke the Satoshi Nakamoto statue in Lugano. Later found in the lake close to the place. But no worries, the Lugano Plan B community is already investigating. Lugano is well known as a safe and friendly place, except some stupid individuals who still don’t understand the power of Bitcoin. @satoshigallery we are sorry for that, we hope to you see Satoshi again, and stronger. 🧡”: source

No adverse market shifts for Bitcoin or Ethereum have been reported following the event. The occurrence mainly impacts community morale and perceptions rather than financial aspects. Local statements reinforce hopes for swift restoration. A reward of 0.1 BTC was offered by Satoshigallery to encourage information sharing. Local businesses witnessed a temporary decline in tourism, prompting promises of improved event security measures.

Similar vandalism of public crypto art has happened elsewhere without significant or lasting market effects. The symbolic nature of such events often drives heightened community focus rather than financial disruption. Future projections remain largely unaffected due to the lack of financial ties. The strength of the symbolic gesture continues to underline Bitcoin’s growing global influence and cultural footprint.