Challenging the Value of “Replication” with NFTs

An Experimental Project Selling 100 Generations of a 3D-Scanned Banana

Through a cycle of 3D scanning and 3D printing, a banana was replicated 100 times. The 3D data (.stl format) generated during this process was sold as NFTs, exploring how each copy’s unique attributes influence its perceived value.

Issue

Does Replication Alter Value?

Traditionally, copies are considered less valuable than the original. In the digital age, however, this assumption may no longer hold. To challenge this notion, we replicated a banana 100 times through an iterative cycle of 3D scanning and 3D printing, examining how value shifts across generations.

Creation

Auctioning 100 NFT-Based 3D Models

Each 3D-generated replica was minted as an NFT and auctioned, allowing for a comparative analysis of value across copies. The project also anticipates secondary and tertiary replications—as purchased 3D files may be further copied and circulated—creating an ongoing observation of how digital reproduction evolves in the marketplace.