SOL is the native token of the Solana blockchain. It pays network fees and can be staked to participate in network operations. SOL/USD quotes one SOL in US dollars.
History and development
Solana launched Mainnet Beta in March 2020 with the goal of processing many transactions quickly. Its design combines transaction ordering with validator consensus to support payments and applications on a shared network.
Applications including decentralized finance developed around the network. SOL pays fees and supports staking, giving it a role beyond payments alone. Its early development shows how a focus on processing capacity shaped the platform’s appeal to users and developers.
References: Solana: Year in Review 2020
Comparing charts on this board
Pair Solana with ETH and BTC to distinguish application-platform moves from market-wide crypto moves. SOL and ETH outperforming BTC together highlights the platform group.
For SOL-only reactions, check network operation, updates and application news around that time. Comparing similar roles makes asset-specific developments easier to isolate.
Related charts: ETH / USD · BTC / USD
Official references: Solana: network