Dogecoin is a cryptocurrency that was created as a joke by software developers Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer in December 2013, based on the popular "Doge" meme. Since then, it has grown into a legitimate cryptocurrency with a passionate following. It features a friendly Shiba Inu dog as its mascot and is known for its low transaction fees and fast transaction times. Dogecoin uses similar technology to Bitcoin but has a faster block time and an unlimited supply of coins. Despite its humble beginnings, Dogecoin has gained widespread acceptance and is used for tipping, charitable donations, and even as a payment method for goods and services in some cases.