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

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**Abstract**  This article comprehensively reviews the historical prices and market fluctuations of Ethereum Classic (ETC) since its inception, combining data from bull and bear market phases to evaluate potential returns for investors purchasing 10 ETC coins. It aims to answer the key question "Should I buy Ethereum Classic now?", helping both newcomers and long-term investors understand market timing and growth potential.## Bull Market Start and Early Market Cycles: Historical Price Review (2017 to 2018)Ethereum Classic (ETC) was created as a continuation of the original Ethereum (ETH) blockchain, adhering to the principle of "code is law". According to CoinMarketCap records, its early trading price was approximately $11.9 in 2017.Here's the price changes of Ethereum Classic during the initial bull market phase:### 2017- Opening price: $11.9- Closing price: $25.94- Highest price: $33.97- Lowest price: $10.62- Annual return: 117.9%### 2018- Opening price: $35.07- Closing price: $5.38- Highest price: $41.96- Lowest price: $3.6- Annual return: -84.65%An investor who purchased 10 ETC during the early bull market phase in 2017 would have a potential return of $14.95 if sold today.## Bear Market Adjustment and Mid-term Market Cycles: Return and Risk Analysis (2019 to 2021)During this period, Ethereum Classic's price experienced significant volatility, influenced by various market factors.Here are the potential returns for investors who purchased 10 ETC during the bear market or consolidation phase:- 2019: $92.68- 2020: $78.36- 2021: $45.99## Recent Market Cycles: Should I Buy Ethereum Classic Now? (2022 to present)In recent years, Ethereum Classic has shown both upward and downward trends, sparking discussions about whether we've entered a new bull market or are still in a bear phase.### 2022- Opening price: $29.75- Closing price: $15.79- Highest price: $48.01- Lowest price: $14.82- Annual return: -46.92%### 2023- Opening price: $20.4- Closing price: $21.94- Highest price: $22.89- Lowest price: $14.95- Annual return: 7.52%### 2024- Opening price: $19.25- Closing price: $28.12- Highest price: $37.08- Lowest price: $17.63- Annual return: 46.08%### 2025- Opening price: $25.29- Closing price: $13.4- Highest price: $26.22- Lowest price: $13.4- Annual return: -47.02%Potential returns for investors purchasing 10 ETC during this period are as follows:- 2022: -$163.52- 2023: -$70.03- 2024: -$58.51- 2025-present: -$118.92## Conclusion: Bull Market, Bear Market, and Investment Timing AnalysisBy analyzing Ethereum Classic's historical prices and potential returns, we can observe long-term volatility trends, helping investors assess whether the current phase is still suitable for positioning and answering the key question "Should I buy Ethereum Classic now?".