Pavel Durov Receives $47,000 NFT Frog as a Gift

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, has recently received a remarkable gift in the form of a non-fungible token (NFT) valued at approximately 4 million rubles (around $47,000). The NFT, known as Plush Pepe #1 from the Plush Pepes collection, marks a significant moment in the integration of digital assets within the Telegram ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

Pavel Durov received an NFT worth 4 million rubles as a gift.
The NFT is part of the Plush Pepes collection, specifically Plush Pepe #1.
The gift was sent by Mr FreeMan, the founder of an OTC marketplace for gifts in Telegram.
The NFT was purchased on the secondary market for 14,850 TON.
Telegram introduced NFT gifting features in late 2022, with a dedicated service launched by independent developers.

The Gift That Stands Out

The NFT gift was sent by Mr FreeMan, who is known for his innovative approach to gifting within the Telegram platform. This particular NFT, Plush Pepe #1, is not just a digital collectible; it represents a growing trend of integrating blockchain technology into social media and messaging platforms.

The Rise of NFTs in Telegram

The introduction of NFTs in Telegram began in late 2022, when the platform first allowed users to send digital gifts. This feature has since evolved, with Telegram officially adding the ability to send gifts using its internal currency on October 5, 2024. The move has been well-received, as it allows users to express themselves in new and creative ways.

Financial Implications

Durov's recent ventures into the NFT space have proven lucrative. In April 2025 alone, he reportedly earned 95.8 million rubles from NFT sales, showcasing the potential profitability of digital assets. The Plush Pepe #1 NFT gift further emphasizes the growing intersection of social media and cryptocurrency, as users increasingly seek unique ways to engage with one another.

Sources

Durov was presented with an NFT frog worth 4 million rubles, ForkLog.

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