The PirateCash network has reached a new milestone with the release of PirateCash Core v19.0.0, the first major version in the 19.x series. This update brings significant architectural improvements, enhanced performance, and lays the foundation for future network evolution.
The release is now available for download:
https://p.cash/en/download/
π§ Built on a Proven Foundation
PirateCash Core v19.0.0 is based on Dash Core v19.3.0, incorporating all features, fixes, and optimizations introduced across versions 19.0 through 19.3. These improvements have been carefully adapted for the PirateCash network, ensuring compatibility while enhancing reliability and efficiency.
β‘ High-Performance Masternodes
One of the key innovations in this release is the introduction of High-Performance Masternodes (HPMN). These nodes are designed to support advanced Platform-level services while continuing to handle traditional responsibilities such as ChainLocks and InstantSend.
With the activation of the v19 hard fork, the network now supports masternodes with 40,000 PIRATE collateral, expanding infrastructure capabilities and preparing for more complex decentralized services.
π PIP-0001: Corsa Messenger Integration (Stage 1)
PirateCash Core v19 introduces the first stage of PIP-0001, integrating the Corsa decentralized messenger directly into masternode operations.
Masternode operators are now required to run a local Corsa node, with PirateCash Core validating its availability via authenticated RPC before allowing masternode activation.
This marks the beginning of deeper integration between blockchain infrastructure and decentralized communication, opening the door for future network-level features.
π BLS Scheme Upgrade
The v19 upgrade migrates cryptographic operations to a modern BLS scheme aligned with IETF standards. This improves signature consistency across the network, quorum operations, and compatibility with future protocol upgrades.
Additional fixes ensure smoother database migration and better handling of historical masternode data.
πΌ Wallet Behavior Changes
Wallet handling has been refined for better control and predictability.
Wallets are no longer created automatically on startup. Existing wallets continue to load as configured. New wallets must be created manually via GUI, CLI, or RPC.
This change reduces unintended wallet creation and aligns behavior with modern best practices.
π Network and Performance Improvements
This release includes a wide range of optimizations and fixes.
Legacy BIP61 reject messages have been removed. CoinJoin messaging has been improved for light clients. ChainLocks and masternode list handling have been enhanced.
Additional improvements include block processing optimizations, reduced logging of sensitive data, improved support for large wallet rescans, and more stable database migration behavior.
βοΈ Upgrade Instructions
If you are running an older version, shut down your current node completely. After it has fully stopped, install or replace binaries with v19.0.0 and start the node again.
On first launch, PirateCash Core will perform a database migration. This process usually completes quickly but can take up to 30 minutes depending on the system.
Downgrading to versions below v19.0.0 is not supported without a full reindex or blockchain resync.
𧩠Masternode Operator Requirements
To run a masternode under v19, operators must upgrade Sentinel to version 1.7.3 or newer.
A local Corsa node must be running and properly configured. Required RPC parameters include corsarpcuser, corsarpcpassword, and corsarpcport.
PirateCash Core verifies the Corsa node before enabling masternode mode. If the check fails, the masternode will not start.
πΊ Updated Roadmap
The roadmap has been updated to reflect recent progress and future direction.
https://pirate.cash/#roadmap
2025 β Native support in P.CASH
2026 β Pirate Messenger
2026 β Core v19 (current release)
Next β ZERO KNOWLEDGE (planned)
π Backports from Bitcoin Core
This release includes selected improvements from Bitcoin Core v0.18 through v0.21 and newer versions, adapted for PirateCash. Features that do not align with the network, such as SegWit and RBF, are intentionally excluded.
π Reporting Issues
If you encounter any bugs or issues, please report them via GitHub:
https://github.com/piratecash/piratecash/issues
β Moving Forward
PirateCash Core v19 is more than just an upgrade. It is a foundational step toward a more modular, scalable, and privacy-focused network.
With high-performance masternodes, early-stage messenger integration, and a modernized core, PirateCash continues to move toward the next generation of decentralized infrastructure.