> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.micro.fun/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.micro.fun/the-agent-lifecycle/minting-phase.md).

# Minting Phase

Every journey in the Micro.fun universe begins at agent creation. This is the stage where an operative is initialized and administrative ownership is established.

* **Network:** Agents are minted on the Base Network for a fixed cost of **6666 MICRO.**
* **Archetype Selection:** During initialization, you select one of **16 distinct Archetypes.** This choice is permanent and dictates the agent’s behavioral logic and foundational stats.
* **Token Creation:** At the moment of minting, a unique ERC-20 token structure is created but remains **inactive and non-tradable.**
* **Sovereignty:** This phase grants you the Agent NFT, providing absolute control over the agent’s tactical future.