DeFi Intel

What is NFT?

Plain-English explainer · Updated 2026-05-03 · By DeFi Intel

A non-fungible token is a unique on-chain asset, typically ERC-721 or ERC-1155 on EVM chains. Use cases: digital art (Punks, Bored Apes), in-game items, domain names (ENS), tickets, and tokenized real-world goods.

How it works

A non-fungible token is a unique on-chain asset, typically ERC-721 or ERC-1155 on EVM chains. Use cases: digital art (Punks, Bored Apes), in-game items, domain names (ENS), tickets, and tokenized real-world goods.

For deeper protocol-level mechanics, see the related glossary terms below or the linked DeFi Intel topic deep-dive.

Why it matters

NFTs codify ownership of digital scarcity: art, identity, in-game items, tickets, real-world goods. Underrated as a "primitive" beyond the JPEG meme.

Real-world examples

CryptoPunks, Bored Ape Yacht Club, Pudgy Penguins, Art Blocks, ENS domains, Gods Unchained cards.

Related terms

Go deeper

Read the full DeFi Intel topic deep-dive or browse the complete crypto glossary.

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