Koi Fish Value

The value of koi fish can range from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars per fish, depending on lineage, quality, size, age, and purpose.

Koi are often treated as personal property or assets in situations involving real estate sales, estates, insurance, donations, or when an owner is exiting the hobby. In those cases, understanding fair market value — and having it properly documented — can be critical.

This page explains what affects koi fish value, when a professional appraisal is appropriate, and the options available when selling or donating koi.

Koi fish value is not determined by color alone. Professional valuation typically considers multiple factors, including:

• Bloodline and breeder reputation  

• Variety and pattern quality  

• Size, age, and body conformation  

• Skin quality and overall health  

• Provenance and documentation  

• Intended use (personal property, insurance, estate, donation, or sale)

Because of these variables, two koi of similar size can have dramatically different values. This is why generalized price charts are often misleading in real-world situations.

A professional koi appraisal is typically needed when koi are involved in situations where value must be documented rather than estimated.

Common scenarios include:

• Homes being sold where koi transfer with the property  

• Estates or probate situations  

• Insurance coverage or loss documentation  

• Charitable donation of koi  

• Owners exiting the hobby and needing clarity on fair market value  

In these cases, informal price opinions or hobby estimates are often insufficient. Proper documentation helps reduce disputes, establish clarity, and support decision-making.

In cases involving charitable donation, a formal appraisal may be required for IRS Form 8283, depending on the nature and value of the donation.

Koi Appraisal International provides independent, third-party koi appraisals for situations where accurate documentation matters. Appraisals are commonly used for real estate transactions, estates, insurance, charitable donations, and formal record keeping.

Each appraisal is prepared with professional methodology and intended to support clear decision-making rather than speculation.