Optimism (OP) Historical Price and Return Analysis: Should I Buy OP Now?

Abstract

This article provides a comprehensive review of Optimism’s historical price movements and market fluctuations since its inception, combining data from bull and bear market phases to assess the potential returns for investors purchasing 10 OP tokens. It addresses the critical question: “Should I buy Optimism now?” helping both newcomers and long-term investors identify optimal entry points and growth opportunities.

Early Market Cycles: Historical Price Review (2022 to 2023)

Optimism, a low-cost, lightning-fast Ethereum Layer 2 blockchain, began trading at approximately $1.5 in 2022. The OP token, serving as the native governance token of the Optimism ecosystem, has experienced significant price volatility since its market debut.

Below are the price movements during Optimism’s early market phases:

2022

• Opening Price: $1.5
• Closing Price: $0.9224
• Highest Price: $1.91
• Lowest Price: $0.5088
• Annual Return: -38.51%

2023

• Opening Price: $1.26
• Closing Price: $3.71
• Highest Price: $3.71
• Lowest Price: $1.09
• Annual Return: 193.76%

An investor who purchased 10 OP tokens during the early bear market in 2022 would have experienced a loss of approximately $13.07 if selling at the 2023 peak, though this would turn positive during the subsequent bull run. By year-end 2023, an investor holding 10 tokens would see substantial gains from their 2022 purchase.

Market Adjustment and Medium-Term Cycles: Returns and Risk Analysis (2024 to 2025)

During this period, Optimism experienced significant downward pressure, with the token declining substantially from its 2023 highs. The price movements reflected broader market corrections and competitive pressures within the Layer 2 ecosystem.

Potential returns for investors who purchased 10 OP tokens during different periods:

• 2024: -$29.777
• 2025: -$15.888

2024

• Opening Price: $3.17
• Closing Price: $2.09
• Highest Price: $4.54
• Lowest Price: $1.31
• Annual Return: -34.02%

2025

• Opening Price: $1.78
• Closing Price: $0.3194
• Highest Price: $1.78
• Lowest Price: $0.2722
• Annual Return: -82.07%

Recent Market Cycle: Should I Buy Optimism Now? (2026 to Present)

In 2026, Optimism continued its downward trajectory, with the token trading at significantly depressed levels compared to its historical highs. The market remains in a challenging phase with further price compression observed.

2026

• Opening Price: $0.3158
• Closing Price: $0.1929
• Highest Price: $0.3235
• Lowest Price: $0.1929
• Annual Return: -38.92%

Potential returns for investors who purchased 10 OP tokens during recent periods:

• 2026 to present: -$1.229

Summary: Bull Markets, Bear Markets, and Investment Timing Analysis

Through analysis of Optimism’s historical price movements and potential returns, the data reveals a pronounced downward trend from 2023 onwards, with the token declining over 94% from its peak. The pattern demonstrates significant volatility and sustained pressure on valuations across multiple consecutive years. Investors considering current entry points should carefully evaluate whether they believe the current price levels represent a sustained bottom or if further corrections may occur.