While most crypto enthusiasts settle for social media shilling, one bold marketer took token promotion to new heights – literally. On February 15, 2025, a masked figure scaled the iconic Hollywood sign, perching atop the “D” to wave a flag promoting Vigilante Token (VIGI), a newly launched Solana-based cryptocurrency.
The stunt, which lasted about an hour, drew immediate attention from law enforcement. LAPD and park rangers responded to the scene at 2:54 PM, with an ambulance standing by – because nothing says “buy my token” quite like potential injury or death. The climber had to navigate past security barriers and systems to reach the famous landmark. The climber, dressed in dark clothing and a ski mask, was eventually taken into custody without incident.
The publicity stunt initially worked – sort of. VIGI’s price skyrocketed by an eye-watering 63,140%, briefly hitting a $5.5 million market cap. But what goes up must come down, and down it went – hard. Within 24 hours, the token’s value plummeted 99.5%, settling at a modest $1 million market cap. As a small-cap cryptocurrency, VIGI demonstrated the typical volatility associated with tokens valued under $1 billion. Crypto volatility at its finest. This volatility echoes the broader trend of fluctuating cryptocurrency regulations creating uncertainty in the market.
Social media exploded with the news. Vigilante’s team brazenly posted a photo of the Hollywood sign with the caption “Currently…” and promised their next marketing stunt would be “10x bigger.” Because apparently, one brush with the law wasn’t enough.
The stunt raised serious questions about cryptocurrency marketing practices and potential securities law violations. It also highlighted the increasingly desperate measures some projects take to stand out in the crowded crypto space. Legal experts weren’t amused.
Reckless crypto stunts reveal an industry desperate for attention, while regulators watch with growing concern and diminishing patience.
But perhaps the most telling aspect was the token’s dramatic rise and fall – a perfect illustration of meme token volatility. While the climber got his 15 minutes of fame, the stunt served as a stark reminder of crypto’s wild west nature.
And somewhere, a marketing team is probably planning their next outrageous promotion. Just hopefully not on any national monuments.
