TON Coin and Open Network: a new era of blockchain technologies

TON Coin, also known as Toncoin, is the main cryptocurrency of the Open Network (TON) - a decentralized first-level blockchain that aims to create a truly scalable and user-friendly platform. The concept was initially developed by Dr. Nikolai Durov with the support of the Telegram team, but later TON evolved into a community-driven project, combining cutting-edge technology with unprecedented accessibility.

The uniqueness of the Open Network lies in its innovative multi-blockchain architecture. It consists of a master chain and numerous working chains, each of which can be divided into shard chains. This structure allows TON to theoretically process an enormous number of transactions per second while maintaining decentralization and security. As of 2025, approximately 3.5 billion TON tokens are in circulation out of a maximum supply of 5 billion, and the network processes over a million transactions daily.

TON gained particular significance in September 2023 when it was officially recognized as the Web3 infrastructure of Telegram. This collaboration opened up access for TON to the extensive user base of the popular messenger, allowing for the integration of cryptocurrency transactions, payment for Telegram premium services, and other Web3 services directly within the familiar app interface.

Differences between TON and Toncoin

For a complete understanding of the ecosystem, it is important to differentiate between the concepts of TON and Toncoin. The open network (TON) represents a cohesive blockchain infrastructure - a comprehensive platform that includes a multi-blockchain system, smart contract functionality, decentralized services, and a complete technological stack for the operation of scalable decentralized applications. TON encompasses the master chain, working chains, shard chains, and all protocols that ensure their interaction.

Toncoin, in turn, is the native utility token that powers this ecosystem. It serves as the primary economic unit within TON, used for paying transaction fees, staking by validators, executing smart contracts, and transferring value on the network. When conducting transactions, staking to become a validator, or interacting with decentralized applications on TON, it is Toncoin that is used.

The relationship between TON and Toncoin plays a key role in the functioning of the network. While TON provides the technical infrastructure for the creation and operation of decentralized applications, Toncoin creates economic incentives that ensure the security of the network, reward validators, and facilitate the exchange of value among participants. Without Toncoin, the TON network would lack the economic mechanisms necessary for achieving consensus, ensuring security, and sustainable functioning.