In the physical world, scarcity drives value. Diamonds, Rolex watches, and rare collectibles all command premium prices because there are so few of them. The same principle applies to digital identities in Web3, short usernames are not just convenient, they’re status symbols and assets in their own right.

With the rise of decentralized identity solutions like Modular Naming Service (MNS), we are witnessing the next evolution of digital scarcity.

Why Scarcity Matters in Digital Identity

Every username in MNS is unique. Once claimed, it belongs to the user, and can be held, traded, or used across the ecosystem.

But here’s the catch:

  • Short usernames are extremely limited.
  • Long usernames are abundant.

This scarcity translates directly into value. Just like web domains in the 1990s, those who secure rare names today will own digital real estate that grows more valuable over time.

The Pricing Model of Scarcity

To understand this better, let’s look at the pricing structure for MNS identities:

  • Exclusive (<1,000 total usernames available) – $2,500
  • 1-character (36 total usernames available) – $2,500
  • 2-character (1,296 total usernames available) – $1,250
  • 3-character (49,248 total usernames available) – $650
  • 4-character (1.8M total usernames available) – $200
  • 5-character (71M total username available) – $40
  • 6–9 characters (NA)– $20
  • 10+ characters (NA)– $10

This tiered system reflects one thing: the rarer the username, the higher its value.

Think about it, there are billions of possible long usernames, but only 36 one-character names in the entire system. Owning one of them is like holding a piece of history.

Why Short Names Are Digital Gold

  1. Memorability – A one or two-character name is easy to remember and instantly recognizable.
  2. Status & Exclusivity – Just like rare license plates, short names are flex-worthy assets in the digital world.
  3. Liquidity – Scarce assets with high demand are easier to resell or trade.
  4. Future-Proofing – As more users join Web3, demand for rare names will only increase while supply remains fixed.

The Future of Identity in Web3

Usernames are no longer just labels, they are assets. In a decentralized ecosystem, they become:

  • Cross-chain passports for interacting seamlessly across blockchains.
  • Brand anchors for creators, companies, and communities.
  • Digital collectibles that appreciate in value over time.

The race for short names is happening right now. Just like early adopters of premium .com domains became digital landlords, today’s pioneers in MNS are securing tomorrow’s most valuable digital assets.

Final Thoughts

Short, rare names are more than vanity handles, they are the foundation of digital identity and ownership in Web3.

Scarcity creates value, and the data is clear:

  • There will always be infinite long names.
  • There will only ever be 36 one-character names.

The real question is, will you secure your rare digital identity before it’s gone?

Secure your unique username today at www.modular.name

‍Follow us on social media for the latest updates:

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Discord | Youtube | Telegram | Linkedin | Facebook