the recent boost in bitcoin value allows me to increase the bounties by 50%:
This seems to imply you are holding your bounties in bitcoin.
Since this is targeted at the bitcoin community, I assume you are also paying them in bitcoin.
Why, then, do you advertise the bounty amounts in dollars instead of in bitcoins?
Two reasons:
1) I want to limit my financial liability, and if people keep claiming bounties while bitcoin explodes in value, I might need to buy bitcoin at exorbitant prices.
2) I thought the dollar amounts sound more impressive:-)
But, on request, and while supplies last, I'd be happy to make a payout in bitcoin.