Overview
The Coinbase Wallet API v2 empowers developers to seamlessly create, manage, and interact with cryptocurrency accounts through a robust infrastructure that handles private key security and complex blockchain operations. Accessible via the CDP SDK or REST endpoints, this API simplifies secure transaction signing while enabling advanced features like token swaps and multi-chain support.
👉 Explore Coinbase's developer tools
Key Features at a Glance
| Feature | v1 Wallet API | v2 Wallet API |
|---|---|---|
| Security Model | Developer-managed keys | AWS Nitro Enclave TEE |
| Authentication | Per-account secrets | Unified wallet secret |
| Network Support | EVM-only | EVM + Solana |
| Smart Accounts | ❌ | EIP-4337 compliant |
| Gas Management | Manual | Sponsorship enabled |
| Viem Integration | ❌ | Full compatibility |
Secure Key Management Architecture
Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)
Private keys are secured within an isolated AWS Nitro Enclave, ensuring cryptographic operations occur in a hardware-protected environment inaccessible to external parties—including Coinbase itself.
Simplified Authentication
- Single Wallet Secret: Manage all accounts across EVM and Solana with one credential
- Rotatable Secrets: Proactively replace compromised credentials without service interruption
Multi-Chain Capabilities
Expanded Network Support
- EVM Networks: Single accounts work across all Ethereum Virtual Machine chains
- Solana Integration: Native support for SOL accounts and transactions
Smart Account Features
Through EIP-4337 implementation, developers gain access to:
- Transaction batching: Combine multiple operations
- Gas sponsorship: Offload user gas costs
- Permission controls: Granular spending rules
👉 Master smart account implementation
Developer Experience Enhancements
Viem Compatibility
Integrate EVM accounts directly with the popular Viem library using custom account adapters, enabling familiar workflows with enhanced security.
CDP-Managed Swaps
Execute token swaps through Coinbase's liquidity network while maintaining custody of assets. The API combines:
- Real-time price discovery
- Quote generation
- Secure execution
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does key rotation affect existing accounts?
A: Rotating your wallet secret immediately invalidates the previous credential while maintaining access to all existing accounts.
Q: Can I use my own node with the Wallet API?
A: Yes, while CDP provides managed infrastructure, you maintain flexibility to connect custom nodes.
Q: What's the difference between EIP-4337 and traditional accounts?
A: Smart accounts enable batched transactions, meta-transactions, and programmable spending rules via account abstraction.
Support Resources
- Developer Community: Join #wallet-api in the CDP Discord
Video Tutorials:
- Instamint NFT creator walkthrough
- Wallet Command Center demo