Dogecoin (DOGE) is a cryptocurrency that was created in 2013 by software engineers Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer as a lighthearted and fun alternative to Bitcoin. Originating from the popular "Doge" internet meme featuring a Shiba Inu dog, Dogecoin has gained a large and enthusiastic community. It operates on a proof-of-work consensus mechanism similar to Bitcoin but features faster block times and an uncapped supply, allowing for quicker and more abundant transactions. Despite its origins as a joke, Dogecoin has become widely used for tipping, charitable donations, and microtransactions, driven by its active community and widespread popularity.