Peercoin, launched in August 2012, is the world's first cryptocoin secured by Proof of Stake. It stands as an energy-efficient digital store of value, enabling online transactions without relying on a central authority. Its efficient design allows for transaction validation even on basic hardware like the first-generation Raspberry Pi. Owning Peercoins grants active participation in the proof-of-stake consensus, offering the opportunity to create new blocks and earn rewards, setting it apart from alternative cryptocurrencies.