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Fantail appraisal

A variety with the body type of a ranchu and a three-color calico pattern (red, white, and black). Specimens with well-balanced wen development, tail form, and three-color color distribution are highly valued for their completeness.

解説用イラスト: Fantail
AI-generated illustration for explanation. Not an actual listed individual.

What determines the price

  • Three-color (red, white, black) color pattern balance

    High

    The more vivid the three colors (red, white, black) appear and the more evenly distributed across the body, the higher the ornamental value. If the coloration becomes too biased toward one color, the three-color character is diminished.

  • Wen development and uniformity

    High

    The more evenly the wen (hood) on the head develops, the higher the evaluation. Wen evaluation similar to that of ranchu is also applied to tosakin.

  • Tail form regularity and spread

    Medium

    Long, evenly spread tail fins enhance the characteristic appearance of this variety.

  • Black color (ink) clarity and stability

    Medium

    Verify whether the black (ink) coloration in the three-color pattern is stable. Black can vary with water temperature and season.

Appraisal points

Confirming three-color pattern balance

解説用イラスト: Confirming three-color pattern balance
AI-generated illustration for explanation. Not an actual listed individual.
Good:
The three colors (red, white, and black) are vivid and evenly distributed throughout the body.
Caution:
When the three-color balance is disrupted—such as pale black or red appearing only in certain areas—the characteristic appearance of this variety is diminished.

Checking wen condition

Good:
The wen is evenly distributed across the entire head with minimal unevenness.
Caution:
If the wen develops only on one side or excessively covers the eyes, consider potential health implications.

Confirm health status

Good:
Swims actively, holds fins upright, and shows no signs of disease on the body surface.
Caution:
Individuals that sink to the bottom, show transparent fins, or exhibit bloodshot eyes require health assessment.

Price tiers by grade

Entry-level grade

A healthy young fish with emerging tri-color coloration and developing warty head (head growth).

Intermediate grade

A well-developed individual with balanced tri-color pattern, fully developed warty head, and refined tail form.

Premium grade

A select specimen with vivid tri-color, large and uniform warty head, and beautifully shaped tail.

For actual prices, see the market-price page.

Appraisal quiz

Regarding the evaluation of "three-color" in tosakin, what is the correct understanding of black (ink)?

Other Goldfish appraisals

General information on judging value; not a guarantee of any individual's price or quality. See the market-price page for actual rates.