Put Options on CS2 Skins
A put gives the buyer downside exposure. The buyer pays premium; the writer receives premium and may owe cash settlement if the put finishes in the buyer’s favor.
Why covered
The writer’s quote is tied to a registered skin receipt.
USDC collateral equal to the strike backs the put.
If it expires
The writer usually keeps the premium.
Collateral and receipt locks can release after lifecycle checks.
If exercised
In-the-money puts are cash-settled by accepted quote terms.
The buyer does not deliver the physical skin.
Writing against a receipt
A writer controls a registered skin receipt, writes a 100 USDC strike put, and locks 100 USDC collateral.
If the put expires OTM, the writer keeps premium. If it is exercised ITM, cash settlement follows the accepted terms.
Covered put outcomes
| Scenario | Writer result | Key risk |
|---|---|---|
| Expires OTM | Keeps premium. | Collateral stays locked until release checks. |
| Exercised ITM | Keeps premium, cash-settles buyer. | Owes payout under quote terms. |
| Custody issue | Lifecycle may pause. | Collateral release can be delayed. |
Quick answers
What is the most a put buyer can lose?
Usually the premium paid plus fees.
Does the buyer deliver the skin?
No. In-the-money puts are cash-settled based on the accepted quote terms.
Is the writer’s collateral locked?
Yes. USDC collateral equal to the strike is locked until settlement or expiry release.