tz2

tz2 is a Tezos blockchain address prefix used for implicit accounts that are tied to the Secp256k1 cryptographic curve. In Tezos, implicit accounts identify funds and ownership, and they are prefixed as tz1, tz2, or tz3 depending on the underlying public key type. tz1 corresponds to Ed25519, tz2 to Secp256k1, and tz3 to P-256. A tz2 address represents the public-key hash of a Secp256k1 key, and funds can be sent to such addresses just like to tz1 or tz3 addresses.

The addresses are rendered in a base58-like encoding, with a version prefix that distinguishes tz2 from other address prefixes. This design helps wallets, explorers, and nodes validate the address type and prevents misinterpretation of different key families. The private key corresponding to the Secp256k1 public key is required to authorize operations spending from a tz2 address.

tz2 addresses are part of the set of implicit accounts in Tezos. They differ from originated contract addresses, which use the KT1 prefix for originated contracts. While tz2 addresses can participate in standard Tezos transactions and token transfers, interacting with smart contracts typically involves KT1 addresses or originated accounts, depending on the operation.

In practice, tz2 is supported by most Tezos wallets, block explorers, and tooling that handle multiple cryptographic curves. As Tezos ecosystems mature, interoperability and cross-compatibility among tz1, tz2, and tz3 addresses remain a consideration for developers and users managing diverse key types. See also: Tezos address prefixes, tz1, tz3, KT1, implicit accounts.