GlossaryUpdated 12 Oct 20261 min read

What is an SPL token?

In one sentence

An SPL token is a fungible token on Solana created through the SPL Token program. It has a mint that defines the supply and decimals, and each holder has a token account.

Definition

SPL stands for Solana Program Library. The SPL Token program is the standard way to make tokens on Solana. USDC and most memecoins are SPL tokens.

Parts

Mint: the token itself, with its supply, decimals and optional authorities.
Token account: holds one wallet balance of one mint.
Metadata: name, symbol and image, stored separately.

Token-2022 is a newer program with extra features such as transfer fees. See how to create a token on Solana.

Questions people ask

Is SPL the same as ERC-20?

It plays the same role on Solana, but it works differently because balances live in separate token accounts.

What is Token-2022?

A newer token program with extensions such as transfer fees.