NFTs
Reveal
Unveiling the final metadata of an NFT after minting, often a surprise reveal.
What is Reveal?
A reveal is the moment when an NFT collection's placeholder images are replaced by each token's final unique artwork and traits. It is one of the most anticipated events in an NFT project's lifecycle.
How does Reveal work?
- The collection launches with a generic placeholder image for every token.
- At a pre-announced time, developers update the metadata URI to point to the final unique artwork for each token ID.
- Marketplaces refresh their cache and the unique traits become visible to owners.
- Some projects use a provenance hash to prove the artwork was finalized before minting began.
Why does Reveal matter?
Reveals create a lottery-like experience that drives community excitement and a surge in trading volume as rare traits are discovered. They also serve as the moment rarity rankings become public.
Key features of Reveal
- Triggered by a metadata URI update on the smart contract
- Provenance hash prevents post-mint trait manipulation
- Drives major spikes in secondary market activity
- Can be instant for the full collection or staggered over days
Examples of Reveal
The Bored Ape Yacht Club reveal generated massive community excitement as owners discovered their unique apes. Some collectors sell before reveal to avoid the risk of receiving a common trait.