Ethereum Classic (ETC) Historical Price and Returns Analysis: Should I Buy ETC Now?

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive review of Ethereum Classic’s historical price movements and market fluctuations since its inception, combining data from bull and bear market phases to assess the potential returns for investors purchasing 10 ETC coins. It addresses the critical question: “Should I buy Ethereum Classic now?” to help both newcomers and long-term investors identify optimal entry points and growth opportunities.

Early Market Origins and Initial Cycles: Historical Price Review (2017 to 2021)

Ethereum Classic (ETC) is a decentralized platform that supports smart contract execution, ensuring applications run exactly as programmed without downtime, censorship, or third-party interference. As the continuation of the original Ethereum blockchain, ETC adheres to the principle of “code is law.” According to market records, ETC’s early trading price was approximately $11.90 in 2017.

The following table shows ETC’s price performance during the early bull market phase:

2017

• Opening Price: $11.90
• Closing Price: $25.94
• Highest Price: $33.97
• Lowest Price: $10.62
• Annual Returns: 117.9%

2018

• Opening Price: $35.07
• Closing Price: $5.38
• Highest Price: $41.96
• Lowest Price: $3.60
• Annual Returns: -84.65%

2019

• Opening Price: $4.13
• Closing Price: $4.87
• Highest Price: $9.55
• Lowest Price: $3.68
• Annual Returns: 17.86%

2020

• Opening Price: $5.56
• Closing Price: $6.56
• Highest Price: $11.70
• Lowest Price: $4.60
• Annual Returns: 17.89%

2021

• Opening Price: $8.80
• Closing Price: $35.35
• Highest Price: $118.05
• Lowest Price: $7.41
• Annual Returns: 301.69%

An investor who purchased 10 ETC during the 2017 bull market entry point would have achieved potential returns of -21.67% if selling today. Those who purchased at the 2018 market bottom would see returns of -253.33%, while early 2019 buyers would realize 56.06% gains. Investors entering in 2020 would have garnered 41.74% returns, and those who capitalized on the 2021 bull market would have seen 9.37% returns to date.

Bear Market Adjustment and Medium-Term Cycles: Risk and Return Analysis (2022 to 2023)

During this period, ETC experienced significant price volatility. The 2022 bear market saw ETC decline from $29.75 to $15.79, representing a -46.92% annual loss, with potential returns for 10 ETC purchased during this period at -200.14%. The market stabilization phase in 2023 showed modest recovery, with ETC trading between $14.95 and $22.89, delivering only 7.52% annual returns and -106.65% potential returns for 10 ETC purchased during this timeframe.

Recent Market Cycles: Should I Buy ETC Now? (2024 to 2026)

In recent years, ETC has experienced mixed performance with considerable volatility, raising questions about whether the asset has entered a new bull market phase or remains in a prolonged bear cycle.

2024

• Opening Price: $19.25
• Closing Price: $28.12
• Highest Price: $37.08
• Lowest Price: $17.63
• Annual Returns: 46.08%

2025

• Opening Price: $25.29
• Closing Price: $12.82
• Highest Price: $26.22
• Lowest Price: $12.21
• Annual Returns: -49.31%

2026 (Year-to-Date)

• Opening Price: $12.37
• Closing Price: $9.74
• Highest Price: $12.37
• Lowest Price: $9.51
• Annual Returns: -21.31%

Investors purchasing 10 ETC during the 2024 recovery would see potential returns of -95.13%, those entering in 2025 would realize -155.54% returns, and current holders from 2026 would face -26.37% potential losses.

Summary: Bull Markets, Bear Markets, and Investment Timing Analysis

Through comprehensive analysis of Ethereum Classic’s historical price movements and potential returns across multiple market cycles, the data reveals significant volatility with no sustained uptrend. From 2017’s 117.9% gains to 2018’s -84.65% collapse, ETC has demonstrated extreme price sensitivity. While 2021 offered a remarkable 301.69% annual return, subsequent years have been characterized by losses or modest gains. The current market period through 2026 shows continued weakness, suggesting investors should carefully evaluate their risk tolerance and investment horizon before entering positions in ETC.