it is a chain of alphanumeric that is supposed to be unique that can't be counterfeited(so they say). Like the matrix, you are made to believe it is real currency and you are willing to trade you FIAT currency and hold it like the "precious" in Lord of the rings. At the end, it is only cornflakes !
The Chinese see through all these and crack down on all Crypto related activities to save their nation from this "matrix". Yet they are planning on rolling out their crypto yuan soon!!! LOL.