The US Secret Service (USSS) has quietly introduced its own NFT collection, yet the organization's officials have consistently opted not to discuss this venture.
The collection was first showcased during a Reddit Ask-Me-Anything (AMA) session in May, organized by the Digital Asset Technology Alliance (DATA), a branch that focuses on crimes involving decentralized technologies. Despite the often secretive nature of the US service, agents elaborated on the state's interest in blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and non-fungible tokens, inclusive of aspects like ownership and testing.
We’re definitely hodlers of crypto. Sometimes to understand the mechanics of particular assets or blockchains, you have to get hands-on and perform some of your own transactions.US Secret Service
These declarations sparked a division in public sentiment. Some questioned why the USSS was delving into crimes related to cryptocurrency and blockchain technologies, while others were captivated by the collection and sought clarifications to the questions that surfaced. What is the rationale behind the American secret service creating its own NFT collection? What benefits does it provide? Why isn't it up for purchase?
The USSS NFT Collection. Source: OpenSea's Official Website
After a period of enduring silence and a myriad of user-speculated theories, the USSS special agents decided to share the backstory of the collection with the crypto community. Initially, the plan was to test NFTs to further comprehend the nuances of blockchain technology. But later, as special agent Alfonso Speed shared, the illustrations were tailored to resemble personal cards, each mirroring the individual tastes of the employees. Consequently, a unique collection of nine NFTs was created, each showcasing a 3D figure, faceless and dressed in a black suit, located at various places as agents were free to choose any site in Northern California during the creation of their personal NFT. This decision led to some amusing situations within the team, like an employee picking the roof of the renowned Alcatraz prison as his location.
You really do see people’s personalities or things that they enjoy doing.© Alfonso Speed, Special Agent, USSS
You can fully explore the collection on OpenSea. Interestingly, some users made attempts to purchase the US Secret Service's non-fungible tokens, with offers going up to $30. But the agency rejected all such proposals, reaffirming that this collection will never be for sale. It's not just a symbol of a government entity within the decentralized space, but also serves as a creative outlet for the team.
