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Some coins are mined by the creators at the very start, when there is no competition, before they are properly released. This way, the creators get a large, uncontested stake in the coin. It is generally frowned upon, especially when it is not properly disclosed.

Gridcoin was not premined.

Correct. It was not premined, I was there.

No idea why Kuradikurat downvoted you to hide your comment... Have a boost - you're telling the truth.

Ha ha I hadn't even noticed, thanks @dutch