Home / Education / Crypto / How to Buy and Sell Memecoins in 2025: A Beginner’s Guide
Trading
11 min read
easy

How to Buy and Sell Memecoins in 2025: A Beginner’s Guide

Published
Lorena Nessi
Published

Key Takeaways

  • Buying and selling memecoins requires caution and secure tools.
  • Market sentiment and trends heavily influence memecoin prices.
  • Researching project backgrounds reduces the risk of scams.
  • Memecoins remain highly volatile and speculative investments.

Memecoins represent a fascinating cultural phenomenon in the crypto landscape. 

They blend internet trends with financial markets, inspiring cryptocurrency enthusiasts and fostering creativity. 

Often rooted in internet memes, these tokens have carved out a unique position in the crypto ecosystem. Examples of popular memecoins include Dogecoin (DOGE), Shiba Inu (SHIB), FLOKI, Trump, and Melania. 

Their charm lies in their community-driven nature and light-hearted origins. They emphasize the importance of building strong communities and show how collective interest can create value.

However, memecoins remain highly volatile, driven by hype and speculation. Users and creators must carefully assess the risks and opportunities they present.

The guide provides a step-by-step overview of buying, selling, and understanding the risks and opportunities in memecoins.

How To Buy Memecoins

Buying a memecoin involves several steps, such as researching, using a crypto wallet, and being familiar with the market. 

Using a Wallet to Buy or Sell Memecoins

Selecting a cryptocurrency wallet compatible with the blockchain supporting the memecoin, such as MetaMask for Ethereum-based tokens or Phantom for Solana-based tokens, is essential.

Choosing the right wallet involves understanding the difference between hot and cold wallets. Hot wallets, like MetaMask or Phantom, remain connected to the internet, making them convenient for frequent transactions but more vulnerable to security risks. 

Cold wallets, including Ledger and Trezor, are offline and provide greater protection, making them suitable for long-term storage or larger amounts and supporting several currencies.

Remember to store the seed phrase offline in a secure location. Sharing the seed phrase with anyone results in complete asset loss.

Steps to Buy Memecoins

Acquire base cryptocurrency on an exchange:

Purchase a major cryptocurrency, such as ETH, BNB, or SOL, through a reputable exchange like Coinbase, Binance, or Kraken. Use this cryptocurrency to swap for the desired memecoins.

Connect to the exchange offering the memecoin:

Log in to your account and trade directly if the memecoin is listed on a centralized exchange (CEX) like Binance. For tokens only available on decentralized exchanges (DEXs),  such as Uniswap or PancakeSwap.

Swap for the memecoin:

Verify the contract address of the memecoin by comparing it across the project’s official website and a reputable blockchain explorer (like Etherscan for Ethereum and Solscan for Solana). Discrepancies between these sources indicate a potential scam or counterfeit tokens. 

It is always a good idea to verify as many characters as possible.

In the DEX interface, select the base cryptocurrency and input the verified contract address of the memecoins.

Confirm the transaction after verifying all details:

Processing times depend on network congestion.

Remember to disconnect your wallet from the DEX after completing your trades.

Additional Tips for a Secure Transaction

Taking extra precautions during transactions can minimize risks and ensure a smooth trading experience. Follow these tips to stay secure and informed:

  • Slippage: Remember that users can adjust the slippage tolerance, which defines the acceptable percentage difference between the expected price and the final execution price of a transaction. This setting, typically between 1-5%, ensures the trades’ completion even if minor price fluctuations occur during processing.
  • Gas fees: Review the gas or network transaction fees, which vary depending on network activity.
  • Test transaction: Start with a small test transaction to confirm the settings before executing a more significant swap.
  • Verification: Confirm the memecoin’s presence in the wallet by manually adding token details. Sometimes, wallets don’t automatically display new tokens. This is usually done by importing the token’s contract address into your wallet interface. Consult your wallet’s documentation for specific instructions.

Users should regularly monitor wallet balances and transaction history to identify unauthorized activity. Additionally, they can track the memecoin’s performance using cryptocurrency monitoring platforms.

How To Sell Memecoins

Selling memecoins requires a strategic approach to maximize profits while minimizing risks. These steps outline the process and key considerations:

Assess market conditions:

Selling involves more than just timing; it requires a strategic analysis of various factors:

  • Determine market sentiment. If fear, uncertainty, or doubt (FUD) dominates or the market is generally bullish.
  • Analyze whether the price trends upwards, downwards, or sideways. If you are familiar with charts or technical indicators, use them.
  • Consider any upcoming announcements, regulatory changes, or events that could influence the memecoin’s price.
  • Ensure there is a clear plan for profit-taking. If the target has been reached, it may be time to act.

Prepare your wallet and connect it:

  • Ensure the wallet holding the memecoins contains a small amount of the blockchain’s native token to cover gas fees.
  • Access the same exchange used to purchase the memecoin and double-check the URL to avoid phishing websites.
  • Connect the wallet securely.

Initiate the sell order:

  • In the exchange’s interface, select the memecoin to sell and the cryptocurrency to receive.
  • Specify the number of memecoins to sell.
  • Review the estimated amount of the receiving cryptocurrency displayed by the exchange.
  • Remember to consider slippage, as it remains important when selling. Significant price movements during transaction processing can affect the amount received.

Review and confirm the transaction:

  • Carefully review all details, including the number of memecoins to sell, the estimated amount to be received, and the transaction fees.
  • Confirm the transaction, noting that processing times may vary based on network congestion.

After confirming the transaction, check the wallet to ensure the cryptocurrency received has been credited. If needed, use a blockchain explorer to verify the transaction details.

Important Considerations for Selling

  • Tax implications: Selling cryptocurrencies may trigger taxable events depending on the jurisdiction. Understand local tax regulations.
  • Partial sales: Selling doesn’t require liquidating the entire holding. Consider selling portions to secure profits while leaving some for potential future gains.

The Rise of Memecoin Culture

Memecoins emerged from the internet’s role as a hub for culture and creativity. Memes, viral videos, and evolving online communities created a shared language that laid the groundwork for the memecoin phenomenon. These tokens reflect the humor and collective spirit that defined early internet trends.

After Dogecoin’s (DOGE) breakthrough, other memecoins emerged, including Shiba Inu (SHIB), using distinct memes and themes to attract communities. 

Some have even attempted to leverage existing well-known memes, though this has often been controversial. 

Key Considerations Before Trading Memecoins

The first step is to evaluate the memecoin’s background, including its community, purpose, and the meme or theme it represents. 

Considering which blockchains memecoins operate on is also crucial, as the underlying blockchain affects transaction speed, fees, and accessibility. 

For example, Dogecoin (DOGE) operates on its dedicated blockchain, the Dogecoin network. 

In contrast, Shiba Inu (SHIB) is an Ethereum-based ERC-20 token utilizing Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities. 

Similarly, Solana’s fast transaction speeds and scalability have made it a platform for memecoin innovation, as demonstrated by projects like Samoyedcoin. 

Memecoin traders should consider the following:

  • Social media trends and influencer endorsements often drive memecoin popularity, blending investment with entertainment in a way that captures widespread attention. 
  • Assess the project’s popularity on social media platforms and forums to determine its reach and engagement. However, social media metrics can be manipulated or artificially inflated. Consider checking for past controversies, rug pulls , or other red flags associated with the project or its creators.
  • Review the project’s whitepaper, team details, and tokenomics. Avoid projects with anonymous teams, unrealistic promises, or poorly designed tokenomics.
  • Verify whether the smart contract has been audited. Unaudited contracts may carry significant risks.
  • Avoid decisions driven by hype or fear of missing out (FOMO). Memecoins remain speculative investments prone to dramatic price fluctuations. Users should invest only what they can safely risk, as they may lose the entire investment.
  • Additionally, it is important to remember that Memecoins often experience dramatic price swings, leading to potential losses due to their volatile nature. Their value frequently depends on unpredictable values.

How To Find the Next Viral Memecoin

Finding the next viral memecoin requires staying informed and connected to key sources of crypto buzz. Viral memecoins often gain traction through strong community support, social media trends, and unique features that resonate with a broad audience. 

  • Monitor social media trends: Platforms like X, Reddit, and TikTok are hotspots for memecoin discussions. Watch for hashtags, mentions, and trending topics that signal growing interest in new tokens. Engaging with posts and comments can provide early insights.
  • Join crypto communities: Telegram groups, Discord servers, and specialized crypto forums often discuss upcoming memecoins. Participating in these communities helps uncover buzz around new projects and gain perspectives from early adopters.

  • Watch for influencer endorsements: Tweets or mentions from crypto influencers can drive massive attention to new memecoins. However, verify the authenticity of endorsements, as fake promotions are common.
  • Track new listings: Keep an eye on listings on major exchanges like Binance or decentralized platforms. Early listings often indicate growing interest and liquidity for new memecoins.
  • Analyze tokenomics and roadmaps: Viral memecoins typically have unique features or community-driven goals that attract attention. Evaluate the project’s tokenomics, utility, and long-term vision to gauge its potential to go viral.
  • Look for Low Market Cap Gems: Early-stage memecoins with small market caps can have a higher potential for growth but carry higher risk.

By combining these strategies, individuals can increase their chances of spotting the next viral memecoin while staying informed about market trends and avoiding potential risks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Trading Memecoins

Trading memecoins can be rewarding, but it comes with significant risks. Avoiding these common mistakes is key to managing your investments responsibly:

  • Buying into hype without research: Investing based on trends or endorsements without understanding the project often leads to losses. Always investigate the token’s background, community, and purpose.
  • Over-investing in volatile tokens: Memecoins are highly unpredictable, with rapid price changes. To avoid financial stress, only invest in risk funds that can be safely managed.
  • Scams and fraud: The memecoin market includes projects with malicious intent or poor design. Always verify the legitimacy of tokens, teams, and platforms to protect your funds.
  • Overlooking lack of regulation: Many memecoins operate in unregulated spaces, exposing traders to legal and financial risks. Understanding local regulations helps mitigate these uncertainties.
  • Ignoring liquidity issues: Some memecoins may lack sufficient trading volume, making it challenging to buy or sell without affecting the price.

Staying Safe While Trading Memecoins

Safety is essential when trading memecoins due to the risks of scams and fraud. Adopting secure practices can help protect investments:

  • Verify exchanges and wallets: Use trusted platforms with proven security and avoid unverified services.
  • Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding 2FA strengthens account security and helps prevent unauthorized access.
  • Use strong passwords: Secure accounts with unique and complex passwords to minimize vulnerabilities.
  • Avoid unsolicited offers: Be cautious of unexpected messages or investment opportunities often linked to scams.

Conclusion

Memecoins combine internet culture with cryptocurrency, creating opportunities for creativity and community-driven innovation. While they offer potential rewards, memecoins also carry significant risks due to their speculative nature and market volatility.

Trading memecoins requires thorough research, careful risk management, and secure wallets and platforms. 

Buyers and sellers must stay vigilant against scams, verify transaction details, and assess market conditions to make informed decisions.

FAQs

What is the typical lifespan of a memecoin in the market?

The lifespan of a memecoin varies significantly. Many have short-lived popularity tied to trends, while a few, like Dogecoin, maintain long-term relevance due to strong community support.

 

Are there any tools to track new memecoin launches?

Yes, platforms like CoinMarketCap, CoinGecko, and DEXTools provide data on new token launches, including memecoins. Social media groups and forums also highlight emerging projects.



How do influencers affect the price of memecoins?

Influencers can significantly impact memecoin prices through endorsements or mentions. Their posts often create hype, leading to sudden price spikes or drops based on community reactions.



Can memecoins transition to having real-world utility?

Some memecoins aim to develop real-world utility by funding charitable causes, supporting community projects, or integrating with platforms for payments or services. However, most remain speculative.

 

 

Disclaimer: Key Takeaways Buying and selling memecoins requires caution and secure tools. Market sentiment and trends heavily influence memecoin prices. Researching project backgrounds reduces the risk of scams. Memecoins remain highly volatile and speculative investments. Memecoins represent a fascinating cultural phenomenon in the crypto landscape.  They blend internet trends with financial markets, inspiring cryptocurrency enthusiasts and fostering creativity.  Often rooted in internet memes, these tokens have carved out a unique position in the crypto ecosystem. Examples of popular memecoins include Dogecoin (DOGE), Shiba Inu (SHIB), FLOKI, Trump, and Melania.  Their charm lies in their community-driven nature and light-hearted origins. They emphasize the importance of building strong communities and show how collective interest can create value. However, memecoins remain highly volatile, driven by hype and speculation. Users and creators must carefully assess the risks and opportunities they present. The guide provides a step-by-step overview of buying, selling, and understanding the risks and opportunities in memecoins. You May Also Like Crypto Crypto Wallet Address 101: What You Need To Know Crypto What Is $MELANIA Memecoin: Everything You Need to Know Crypto What Is Official $TRUMP Memecoin: Everything You Need to Know How To Buy Memecoins Buying a memecoin involves several steps, such as researching, using a crypto wallet, and being familiar with the market.  Using a Wallet to Buy or Sell Memecoins Selecting a cryptocurrency wallet compatible with the blockchain supporting the memecoin, such as MetaMask for Ethereum-based tokens or Phantom for Solana-based tokens, is essential. Choosing the right wallet involves understanding the difference between hot and cold wallets. Hot wallets, like MetaMask or Phantom, remain connected to the internet, making them convenient for frequent transactions but more vulnerable to security risks.  Cold wallets, including Ledger and Trezor, are offline and provide greater protection, making them suitable for long-term storage or larger amounts and supporting several currencies. Remember to store the seed phrase offline in a secure location. Sharing the seed phrase with anyone results in complete asset loss. Steps to Buy Memecoins Acquire base cryptocurrency on an exchange: Purchase a major cryptocurrency, such as ETH, BNB, or SOL, through a reputable exchange like Coinbase, Binance, or Kraken. Use this cryptocurrency to swap for the desired memecoins. Connect to the exchange offering the memecoin: Log in to your account and trade directly if the memecoin is listed on a centralized exchange (CEX) like Binance. For tokens only available on decentralized exchanges (DEXs),  such as Uniswap or PancakeSwap. Swap for the memecoin: Verify the contract address of the memecoin by comparing it across the project’s official website and a reputable blockchain explorer (like Etherscan for Ethereum and Solscan for Solana). Discrepancies between these sources indicate a potential scam or counterfeit tokens.  It is always a good idea to verify as many characters as possible. In the DEX interface, select the base cryptocurrency and input the verified contract address of the memecoins. Confirm the transaction after verifying all details: Processing times depend on network congestion. Remember to disconnect your wallet from the DEX after completing your trades. Additional Tips for a Secure Transaction Taking extra precautions during transactions can minimize risks and ensure a smooth trading experience. Follow these tips to stay secure and informed: Slippage: Remember that users can adjust the slippage tolerance, which defines the acceptable percentage difference between the expected price and the final execution price of a transaction. This setting, typically between 1-5%, ensures the trades’ completion even if minor price fluctuations occur during processing. Gas fees: Review the gas or network transaction fees, which vary depending on network activity. Test transaction: Start with a small test transaction to confirm the settings before executing a more significant swap. Verification: Confirm the memecoin’s presence in the wallet by manually adding token details. Sometimes, wallets don’t automatically display new tokens. This is usually done by importing the token’s contract address into your wallet interface. Consult your wallet’s documentation for specific instructions. Users should regularly monitor wallet balances and transaction history to identify unauthorized activity. Additionally, they can track the memecoin’s performance using cryptocurrency monitoring platforms. How To Sell Memecoins Selling memecoins requires a strategic approach to maximize profits while minimizing risks. These steps outline the process and key considerations: Assess market conditions: Selling involves more than just timing; it requires a strategic analysis of various factors: Determine market sentiment. If fear, uncertainty, or doubt (FUD) dominates or the market is generally bullish. Analyze whether the price trends upwards, downwards, or sideways. If you are familiar with charts or technical indicators, use them. Consider any upcoming announcements, regulatory changes, or events that could influence the memecoin’s price. Ensure there is a clear plan for profit-taking. If the target has been reached, it may be time to act. Prepare your wallet and connect it: Ensure the wallet holding the memecoins contains a small amount of the blockchain’s native token to cover gas fees. Access the same exchange used to purchase the memecoin and double-check the URL to avoid phishing websites. Connect the wallet securely. Initiate the sell order: In the exchange’s interface, select the memecoin to sell and the cryptocurrency to receive. Specify the number of memecoins to sell. Review the estimated amount of the receiving cryptocurrency displayed by the exchange. Remember to consider slippage, as it remains important when selling. Significant price movements during transaction processing can affect the amount received. Review and confirm the transaction: Carefully review all details, including the number of memecoins to sell, the estimated amount to be received, and the transaction fees. Confirm the transaction, noting that processing times may vary based on network congestion. After confirming the transaction, check the wallet to ensure the cryptocurrency received has been credited. If needed, use a blockchain explorer to verify the transaction details. Important Considerations for Selling Tax implications: Selling cryptocurrencies may trigger taxable events depending on the jurisdiction. Understand local tax regulations. Partial sales: Selling doesn’t require liquidating the entire holding. Consider selling portions to secure profits while leaving some for potential future gains. The Rise of Memecoin Culture Memecoins emerged from the internet’s role as a hub for culture and creativity. Memes, viral videos, and evolving online communities created a shared language that laid the groundwork for the memecoin phenomenon. These tokens reflect the humor and collective spirit that defined early internet trends. After Dogecoin’s (DOGE) breakthrough, other memecoins emerged, including Shiba Inu (SHIB), using distinct memes and themes to attract communities.  Some have even attempted to leverage existing well-known memes, though this has often been controversial.  Key Considerations Before Trading Memecoins The first step is to evaluate the memecoin’s background, including its community, purpose, and the meme or theme it represents.  Considering which blockchains memecoins operate on is also crucial, as the underlying blockchain affects transaction speed, fees, and accessibility.  For example, Dogecoin (DOGE) operates on its dedicated blockchain, the Dogecoin network.  In contrast, Shiba Inu (SHIB) is an Ethereum-based ERC-20 token utilizing Ethereum’s smart contract capabilities.  Similarly, Solana’s fast transaction speeds and scalability have made it a platform for memecoin innovation, as demonstrated by projects like Samoyedcoin.  Memecoin traders should consider the following: Social media trends and influencer endorsements often drive memecoin popularity, blending investment with entertainment in a way that captures widespread attention.  Assess the project’s popularity on social media platforms and forums to determine its reach and engagement. However, social media metrics can be manipulated or artificially inflated. Consider checking for past controversies, rug pulls , or other red flags associated with the project or its creators. Review the project’s whitepaper, team details, and tokenomics. Avoid projects with anonymous teams, unrealistic promises, or poorly designed tokenomics. Verify whether the smart contract has been audited. Unaudited contracts may carry significant risks. Avoid decisions driven by hype or fear of missing out (FOMO). Memecoins remain speculative investments prone to dramatic price fluctuations. Users should invest only what they can safely risk, as they may lose the entire investment. Additionally, it is important to remember that Memecoins often experience dramatic price swings, leading to potential losses due to their volatile nature. Their value frequently depends on unpredictable values. How To Find the Next Viral Memecoin Finding the next viral memecoin requires staying informed and connected to key sources of crypto buzz. Viral memecoins often gain traction through strong community support, social media trends, and unique features that resonate with a broad audience.  Monitor social media trends: Platforms like X, Reddit, and TikTok are hotspots for memecoin discussions. Watch for hashtags, mentions, and trending topics that signal growing interest in new tokens. Engaging with posts and comments can provide early insights. Join crypto communities: Telegram groups, Discord servers, and specialized crypto forums often discuss upcoming memecoins. Participating in these communities helps uncover buzz around new projects and gain perspectives from early adopters. I want to help a memecoin go viral. Which community deserves it? — Eve (@Evecoins) January 25, 2025  Watch for influencer endorsements: Tweets or mentions from crypto influencers can drive massive attention to new memecoins. However, verify the authenticity of endorsements, as fake promotions are common. Track new listings: Keep an eye on listings on major exchanges like Binance or decentralized platforms. Early listings often indicate growing interest and liquidity for new memecoins. Analyze tokenomics and roadmaps: Viral memecoins typically have unique features or community-driven goals that attract attention. Evaluate the project’s tokenomics, utility, and long-term vision to gauge its potential to go viral. Look for Low Market Cap Gems: Early-stage memecoins with small market caps can have a higher potential for growth but carry higher risk. By combining these strategies, individuals can increase their chances of spotting the next viral memecoin while staying informed about market trends and avoiding potential risks. Common Mistakes to Avoid While Trading Memecoins Trading memecoins can be rewarding, but it comes with significant risks. Avoiding these common mistakes is key to managing your investments responsibly: Buying into hype without research: Investing based on trends or endorsements without understanding the project often leads to losses. Always investigate the token’s background, community, and purpose. Over-investing in volatile tokens: Memecoins are highly unpredictable, with rapid price changes. To avoid financial stress, only invest in risk funds that can be safely managed. Scams and fraud: The memecoin market includes projects with malicious intent or poor design. Always verify the legitimacy of tokens, teams, and platforms to protect your funds. Overlooking lack of regulation: Many memecoins operate in unregulated spaces, exposing traders to legal and financial risks. Understanding local regulations helps mitigate these uncertainties. Ignoring liquidity issues: Some memecoins may lack sufficient trading volume, making it challenging to buy or sell without affecting the price. Staying Safe While Trading Memecoins Safety is essential when trading memecoins due to the risks of scams and fraud. Adopting secure practices can help protect investments: Verify exchanges and wallets: Use trusted platforms with proven security and avoid unverified services. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): Adding 2FA strengthens account security and helps prevent unauthorized access. Use strong passwords: Secure accounts with unique and complex passwords to minimize vulnerabilities. Avoid unsolicited offers: Be cautious of unexpected messages or investment opportunities often linked to scams. Conclusion Memecoins combine internet culture with cryptocurrency, creating opportunities for creativity and community-driven innovation. While they offer potential rewards, memecoins also carry significant risks due to their speculative nature and market volatility. Trading memecoins requires thorough research, careful risk management, and secure wallets and platforms.  Buyers and sellers must stay vigilant against scams, verify transaction details, and assess market conditions to make informed decisions. FAQs What is the typical lifespan of a memecoin in the market? The lifespan of a memecoin varies significantly. Many have short-lived popularity tied to trends, while a few, like Dogecoin, maintain long-term relevance due to strong community support.   Are there any tools to track new memecoin launches? Yes, platforms like CoinMarketCap, CoinGecko, and DEXTools provide data on new token launches, including memecoins. Social media groups and forums also highlight emerging projects. How do influencers affect the price of memecoins? Influencers can significantly impact memecoin prices through endorsements or mentions. Their posts often create hype, leading to sudden price spikes or drops based on community reactions. Can memecoins transition to having real-world utility? Some memecoins aim to develop real-world utility by funding charitable causes, supporting community projects, or integrating with platforms for payments or services. However, most remain speculative.    
Was this Article helpful? Yes No

Lorena Nessi

Lorena Nessi is an award-winning journalist and media and technology expert. She is based in Oxfordshire, UK, and holds a PhD in Communication, Sociology, and Digital Cultures, as well as a Master’s degree in Globalization, Identity, and Technology. Lorena has lectured at prestigious institutions, including Fairleigh Dickinson University, Nottingham Trent University, and the University of Oxford. Her journalism career includes working for the BBC in London and producing television content in Mexico and Japan. She has published extensively on digital cultures, social media, technology, and capitalism. Lorena is interested in exploring how digital innovation impacts cultural and social dynamics and has a keen interest in blockchain technology. In her free time, Lorena enjoys science fiction books and films, board games, and thrilling adventures that get her heart racing. A perfect day for her includes a spa session and a good family meal.
See more