There are perhaps 400 or more different copper-based alloys.
Copper was one of the very first metals to be exploited by mankind, partly because it occurs naturally in a directly usable metallic form. It has a range of very useful properties, including high thermal and electrical conductivity, resistance to fouling (the growth of organisms on its surface), corrosion resistance and ease of fabrication.
Copper is relatively easy to melt, and many elements dissolve well in it, which encourages a wide range of alloying compositions. The main alloy families based on copper include brasses, bronzes and gun metals.