ERC-1155: Multi Token Standard

Introduction

ERC-1155 is a revolutionary multi-token standard for Ethereum smart contracts, enabling a single contract to manage fungible tokens, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and semi-fungible tokens. This standard optimizes efficiency by reducing redundant bytecode and gas costs associated with deploying separate contracts per token type.

👉 Discover how ERC-1155 is transforming blockchain gaming and digital assets

Key Features

1. Batch Transfers

Transfer multiple token types in a single transaction.
Reduces gas fees by minimizing redundant operations.

2. Hybrid Token Support

Supports fungible (ERC-20-like), non-fungible (ERC-721-like), and semi-fungible tokens within one contract.
Example: A game can manage in-game currency (fungible) and unique items (NFTs) in the same contract.

3. Efficient Metadata

Uses a URI-based JSON schema for token metadata.
Supports dynamic ID substitution (e.g., https://token-cdn-domain/{id}.json).

4. Approval Flexibility

Operators can manage all tokens via setApprovalForAll.
Optional scoped approvals (e.g., ERC-1761) for granular control.

Technical Specification

Core Interface

interface ERC1155 {
  event TransferSingle(address indexed _operator, address indexed _from, address indexed _to, uint256 _id, uint256 _value);
  event TransferBatch(address indexed _operator, address indexed _from, address indexed _to, uint256[] _ids, uint256[] _values);
  function safeTransferFrom(address _from, address _to, uint256 _id, uint256 _value, bytes calldata _data) external;
  function balanceOf(address _owner, uint256 _id) external view returns (uint256);
  function setApprovalForAll(address _operator, bool _approved) external;
}

Safe Transfer Rules

Recipient Contracts: Must implement ERC1155TokenReceiver hooks (onERC1155Received/onERC1155BatchReceived).
Events: Emit TransferSingle or TransferBatch for balance changes.

👉 Learn more about safe transfer best practices

Use Cases

| Use Case | Description |
|----------|-------------|
| Gaming | Manage in-game assets (currency, items) efficiently. |
| NFT Marketplaces | Trade multiple NFT collections in one contract. |
| DeFi | Bundle fungible and non-fungible assets (e.g., tokenized real estate). |

FAQs

1. How does ERC-1155 differ from ERC-20 and ERC-721?

ERC-20: Only fungible tokens.
ERC-721: Only non-fungible tokens.
ERC-1155: Combines both + batch operations.

2. Can ERC-1155 tokens be backward compatible?

Yes, hybrid contracts can support ERC-721 transfers via optional interfaces.

3. How are token IDs structured?

Option 1: Split ID bits (e.g., top 128 bits = base token, bottom 128 bits = NFT index).
Option 2: Natural non-fungibles (max supply = 1 per token ID).

4. What’s the gas efficiency gain?

Batch transfers reduce costs by ~80% compared to sequential ERC-20/ERC-721 transfers.

Conclusion

ERC-1155 is a versatile standard ideal for gaming, NFT platforms, and DeFi. Its efficiency and flexibility make it a superior choice for multi-token ecosystems.

👉 Explore ERC-1155 implementations and tools

References

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