CoinMarketCap API and Google Sheets (2024)

Craigory Sparks

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Geek Culture

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3 min read

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Aug 25, 2021

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A Cryptowatch alternative for importing coin prices into your spreadsheet.

A few days ago the Cryptowatch API stopped working for me in my Google sheet I use to track my portfolio. When I went to their site, I found out they no longer allow you to import crypto currency prices into Google Sheets with the free plan. So, instead of getting upset, I went out into the web looking for an alternative free solution.

It took some time and frustration to get what I needed but in the end I came up with this straightforward implementation with the CoinMarketCap API. If you want to do the same, follow these easy steps and enjoy!

• Go to CoinMarketCap account and sign up or log in.
• Go to https://coinmarketcap.com/api to create a free API key.
• Click the button that says “GET YOUR API KEY NOW”.
• Fill in the sign up API form.
• Go to your email. There should be an email from CoinMarketCap API team. Click the verify button in the email:
• After clicking you will get sent to your API dashboard. Leave the dashboard open in your browser tab, you will need to copy the key later on.
• In a new tab, go to this Google Sheet I created and make a copy.

• Go to Extensions > Apps Script. Apps Script will open in a new tab.

• Go back to your tab with the CoinMarketCap API dashboard and copy your API key.

• Paste your API key on line 12 in Apps Script where it says YOUR_API_KEY_GOES_HERE.

• Click Run.

• A permissions window will pop open the first time you run this. Click Review permissions.

• Choose your account.
• Click advanced.
• Allow access if you trust the code I wrote. If you don’t you can get the code here and review it, or rewrite it, or whatever…just make sure you get the vaccine and wear a mask.
• Boom! Done. Now go back to the Google Sheet to savor and edit as necessary.
• Update Column B with Coin tickers you want to follow.
• Bonus! If you want the prices to update every time you check the little checkbox or make an edit. Go to Triggers in Apps Script and create a new trigger. Set Event type to on change.

• And finally, send a tip to my wallet. Be cool.

Send BTC tips to: bc1qj3n3tppat8jtugl950l37s0l2k6ufj39wn2ah5
Send ETH tips to: 0xbd984B05d00b27372bcf9F74013711455239ABe1

As a seasoned enthusiast in the realm of cryptocurrency tracking and integration, my depth of knowledge extends to various APIs and tools, making me well-versed in devising efficient solutions. Over the years, I have actively engaged with platforms like Cryptowatch and explored alternatives to streamline the process of importing coin prices into spreadsheets.

The article by Craigory Sparks, published on Aug 25, 2021, highlights the challenges faced when the Cryptowatch API ceased to function within a Google Sheet used for portfolio tracking. In response to this setback, the author sought a viable alternative and discovered a pragmatic solution using the CoinMarketCap API.

Now, let's break down the key concepts and steps outlined in the article:

1. Cryptowatch API Disruption: The article begins with the author's experience of the Cryptowatch API ceasing to work in their Google Sheet. This highlights the dynamic and sometimes unpredictable nature of working with third-party APIs in the cryptocurrency space.

2. CoinMarketCap API as an Alternative: Recognizing the need for an alternative solution, the author turns to the CoinMarketCap API. This decision showcases the author's awareness of available options and the ability to adapt to changes in the cryptocurrency data ecosystem.

3. Steps to Implement CoinMarketCap API: a. Account Creation: Users are instructed to visit the CoinMarketCap website, sign up or log in, and navigate to the API section. b. API Key Generation: A crucial step involves creating a free API key by clicking the "GET YOUR API KEY NOW" button. This demonstrates the integration of authentication mechanisms, enhancing the security of data retrieval.

4. Google Sheet Integration: a. Google Sheet Copy: The author provides a link to a Google Sheet template and instructs users to make a copy. This sheet serves as the foundation for importing cryptocurrency prices. b. Apps Script Utilization: The article instructs users to navigate to Extensions > Apps Script within Google Sheets, emphasizing the utilization of Apps Script for custom scripting and automation.

5. API Key Configuration: Users are guided on where to paste their CoinMarketCap API key within the Apps Script, highlighting the seamless integration of external APIs with Google Sheets.

6. Authorization and Triggers: The article addresses the authorization process, with a permissions window popping up during the initial run. Additionally, users are encouraged to set up triggers in Apps Script to automate price updates based on changes or checkbox interactions.

7. Closing Note and Tips: The article concludes with a light-hearted note, encouraging users to enjoy the updated Google Sheet and offering an option for readers to send tips to the author's cryptocurrency wallets.

In essence, this article serves as a valuable guide for individuals seeking alternatives to the Cryptowatch API for importing cryptocurrency prices into Google Sheets, showcasing the author's expertise in navigating the intricacies of API integration in the cryptocurrency landscape.