Pascal (PASC) is a proof-of-work cryptocurrency launched in 2016 that takes a distinct approach to blockchain scalability. This guide explains how Pascal works, what makes it different, and what to consider before engaging with it.
⚠️ Not financial or investment advice. Always do your own research.
Pascal — also referred to as PascalCoin — is a decentralized, open-source cryptocurrency that positions itself as a “next-generation” solution to blockchain scalability[reference:0]. It launched in August 2016 and uses a proof-of-work consensus mechanism with a custom algorithm called RandomHash, designed to be CPU-friendly and resistant to ASIC mining[reference:2][reference:3].
The most distinctive feature of Pascal is the SafeBox — a cryptographic data structure that functions as a dynamic ledger of all account balances[reference:5]. Instead of requiring every node to store the entire transaction history indefinitely, Pascal nodes only need the SafeBox plus the last 100 blocks[reference:6]. This means the blockchain can be deleted beyond that point while still maintaining full cryptographic security[reference:7][reference:8]. The SafeBox was invented by Albert Molina in 2016 and later refined by Herman Schoenfeld[reference:9].
Pascal uses PASA accounts — simple numeric account numbers (e.g., 12345-67) — rather than long cryptographic addresses[reference:10][reference:11].
This makes Pascal feel more like traditional banking: you have an account number, and you can associate names, emails, or domain names with it for easier payments[reference:12][reference:13].
To send or receive PASC, you need a PASA account[reference:14].
Pascal reports a mainnet capacity of 1,600 transactions per second (TPS) based on testnet results, with a theoretical limit of up to 72,000 TPS[reference:15][reference:16]. It also supports zero-confirmation transactions for near-instant payments, and users are permitted one zero-fee transaction every five minutes[reference:17].
Before engaging with Pascal — whether as a user, miner, or developer — it helps to assess the project across several practical dimensions.
Launched in 2016, Pascal has a long track record. The codebase is original and not a fork of Bitcoin or Ethereum[reference:18]. Development continues through Pascal Improvement Proposals (PIPs) and community contributions[reference:19].
Wallets are available for Windows, Linux, and mobile (Blaise Wallet, Vue Wallet)[reference:20][reference:21]. Community channels include Discord, Twitter, and Reddit. Developer libraries exist for Java, Dart, and JavaScript.
PASC is available on select exchanges, but availability varies. Many exchanges require buying Bitcoin or Ethereum first and then trading for PASC[reference:24]. Some exchanges trade PASC but not PASA accounts[reference:25].
RandomHash is ASIC-resistant and CPU-native, making mining accessible with standard hardware[reference:26]. GPU mining is possible but yields lower hashrates than CPUs[reference:27]. The project offers a screensaver miner for casual participation[reference:28].
Prices, exchange listings, and network statistics change frequently. Always verify current information through:
Pascal’s market metrics provide context for its size and liquidity. The figures below are illustrative and may change rapidly.
| Metric | Value (illustrative) | Source / Note |
|---|---|---|
| Price (USD) | ~$0.0012 – $0.0020 | Varies by exchange and time[reference:29] |
| Market Cap | ~$48K – $184K | Low relative to major cryptocurrencies[reference:31][reference:32] |
| Circulating Supply | ~39.5M – 40.3M PASC | Out of a max supply of ~42.08M PASC[reference:33] |
| All-Time High | ~$5.70 – $7.11 (2018) | Substantially lower since[reference:35][reference:36] |
| 24h Volume | Often very low or $0 | Indicates low liquidity[reference:37][reference:38] |
Note: Market data is dynamic. Some sources indicate Pascal may be inactive on certain exchanges[reference:39]. Always cross-check multiple sources.
Pascal uses proof-of-work with the RandomHash algorithm to secure the network[reference:40]. The SafeBox model offers a novel security property: because the blockchain can be deleted, nodes require only a small, verifiable state to participate[reference:41]. Account Seals (PIP-0029) allow account histories to be cryptographically secured and verified without the full blockchain[reference:42].
Like any cryptocurrency, wallet security is your responsibility. Use strong passwords, back up your keys, and keep your wallet software updated[reference:44]. Pascal wallets store private keys locally; never share your private keys or wallet password.
Situation: You have 100 PASC in your wallet and want to send 10 PASC to a friend who has a PASA account number 67890-12.
Process:
67890-12).Note: The recipient must have an active PASA account to receive funds[reference:46].
While Pascal offers novel technical features, it also faces real-world challenges that are important to understand.
Understanding how Pascal differs from Bitcoin helps clarify its unique value proposition and trade-offs.
| Feature | Pascal (PASC) | Bitcoin (BTC) |
|---|---|---|
| Account Model | Account-based (PASA numbers) | UTXO (address-based) |
| Blockchain Storage | Deletable; only last 100 blocks + SafeBox needed[reference:55] | Full history stored permanently (grows indefinitely) |
| Transaction Speed | ~1,600 TPS (testnet); theoretical 72,000 TPS[reference:56][reference:57] | ~7 TPS |
| Transaction Fees | One free transaction every 5 minutes; otherwise low[reference:58] | Variable, often significant during network congestion |
| Mining Algorithm | RandomHash (ASIC-resistant, CPU-native)[reference:59] | SHA-256 (ASIC-dominated) |
| Privacy Features | In-protocol mixing/tumbling; zk-SNARKs on roadmap[reference:60] | Pseudonymous, but transactions are publicly traceable |
| Market Cap | ~$50K – $184K (low)[reference:61][reference:62] | ~$1T+ (high) |
Use this checklist to guide your evaluation before engaging with Pascal.
Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and carry significant risk. You may lose part or all of your investment[reference:67]. Pascal, in particular, has a low market cap and low liquidity, which can amplify price swings and make it difficult to exit positions.
This guide is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, investment, legal, or tax advice. Always conduct your own research (DYOR) and consult a qualified professional before making any financial decisions[reference:68].
Never invest more than you can afford to lose. Past performance is not indicative of future results.
Pascal (PASC), also known as PascalCoin, is a proof-of-work cryptocurrency launched in 2016. It focuses on scalability through a unique SafeBox data structure that allows nodes to delete the blockchain beyond the last 100 blocks while maintaining security[reference:70].
The SafeBox is a cryptographic data structure that acts as a dynamic ledger of all account balances. It complements the blockchain by storing only the current state of accounts, allowing the blockchain itself to be deleted while retaining full cryptographic security[reference:72].
A PASA is a Pascal account number — similar to a bank account number — that you need to send and receive PASC[reference:73]. PASA accounts can be associated with names, emails, or domain names for easier payments[reference:74].
Pascal remains an active project with ongoing development, including protocol upgrades and community engagement[reference:75][reference:76]. However, trading volume and market activity have been low in recent periods[reference:77]. Always verify current market status through multiple sources.
PASC is available on select centralized and decentralized exchanges[reference:78]. Many exchanges require you to first purchase Bitcoin or Ethereum and then trade for PASC. Availability varies by region and exchange — check current listings before attempting to buy.
Pascal reports a mainnet capacity of 1,600 transactions per second (TPS) based on testnet results, with a theoretical limit of up to 72,000 TPS[reference:79][reference:80]. It also offers zero-confirmation transactions for near-instant payments[reference:81].
Yes. Pascal uses a CPU-native, ASIC-resistant algorithm called RandomHash, which is designed to be mined on standard CPUs rather than specialized hardware[reference:82]. GPU mining is possible but yields lower hashrates than CPUs[reference:83].
Key risks include low liquidity and market cap, high price volatility, limited exchange support, and the project's relatively small user base compared to major cryptocurrencies[reference:84]. Always conduct your own research and never invest more than you can afford to lose.