DogeCoin is a cryptocurrency that started as a joke in December 2013, featuring the popular Doge meme of a Shiba Inu dog. It was created by software engineers Billy Markus and Jackson Palmer to provide a fun and lighthearted alternative to more serious cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Despite its humorous origins, DogeCoin has gained a significant following and is used for tipping content creators online and for charitable donations. Its community-driven nature and low transaction fees have contributed to its popularity, making it one of the top cryptocurrencies by market capitalization.