The world’s most expensive goldfish was sold at an auction for $1.8 million. The goldfish, named “Goldie”, catapulted to the top of the list of most expensive goldfish ever sold, and drew global attention to the high-priced goldfish market.
So what makes a goldfish worth millions of dollars? The answer lies in the breed. There are several rare and expensive goldfish breeds that can fetch high prices at auction. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the world’s most expensive goldfish.
17 Most Expensive Goldfish In The World
Let’s take a look at some of the most expensive goldfish in the world.
1. Ranchu Goldfish
- Price: $25
- Maximum Size: 8 inches
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: Up to 15 years
The ranchu goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its round, plump body. It is a popular choice for both beginner and intermediate fishkeepers alike. Originating in Japan, the ranchu goldfish is ubiquitous in East Asian aquaria.
At a price of around $25, the ranchu goldfish is one of the more affordable options on our list. They exist in a myriad of different colors, but the most popular is deep red. This makes them a great option for those who are looking for a flashy and vibrant addition to their tanks.
2. Lionhead Goldfish
- Price: $30
- Maximum Size: 6 inches
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: Up to 10 years
The lionhead goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its large, protruding “mane”. Unlike other types of goldfish, the lionhead goldfish does not have a dorsal fin. This means that its back is completely smooth.
The lionhead goldfish is a popular choice for those who are looking for an interesting and unique goldfish to add to their tanks. Beginners can look forward to an easy care level, as this fish is very hardy and resistant to disease.
3. Fantail Goldfish
- Price: $40
- Maximum Size: 7 inches
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: Up to 10 years
Sometimes, less is more. This is certainly the case with the fantail goldfish, which is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its small size. The fantail goldfish typically only grows to a length of 7 inches, making it the perfect choice for those who are looking for a small but beautiful fish.
The primary distinguishing feature of the fantail goldfish is its tail, which is shaped like a fan. Little else separates it from other types of goldfish, but that is part of what makes it so popular!
4. Pearlscale Goldfish
- Price: Up to $50
- Maximum Size: 8 inches
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: Between 5-10 years
The pearl scale goldfish is a small, round fish that is easily recognized by its unique scales. These scales are large and pearl-like and are actually deposits of calcium carbonate. This gives the fish a unique and attractive appearance.
As a goldfish that is hardy and easy to care for, the pearl scale is a great choice for a beginner. It will do well in a 20-gallon tank or larger and can live for up to 10 years!
5. Chocolate Pompom Goldfish
- Price: $50
- Maximum Size: 6 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Up to 15 years
The chocolate pompom goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its chocolate-colored body and pom-pom-shaped wen. Instead of the traditional red, white, and black markings of other oranda goldfish, the chocolate pompom goldfish features a unique brown and cream coloration.
This type of goldfish is a popular choice for those who are looking for something different and unique. It is also a hardy fish that is resistant to disease. Although it is not as commonly found as other types of oranda goldfish, the chocolate pompom goldfish can be found for sale at various pet stores and online retailers.
6. Panda Moor Goldfish
- Price: Up to $50
- Maximum Size: 12 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Between 10-15 years
The panda moor goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its black and white markings. It is a popular choice for both beginner and intermediate fishkeepers alike.
Because of its popularity, the panda moor goldfish can be a bit expensive, with prices ranging up to $50. However, this fish is well worth the investment, as it is both beautiful and easy to care for!
7. Panda Ranchu Goldfish
- Price: Up to $60
- Maximum Size: 8 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Between 10-15
Panda ranchu goldfish, much like the panda moor goldfish, are characterized by their black and white markings. However, the difference between the two lies in their body shape. While the panda moor goldfish has a long, slender body, the panda ranchu goldfish is round and plump.
This difference in body shape makes the panda ranchu goldfish a popular choice for those who are looking for an interesting and unique goldfish to add to their tanks.
8. Shubunkin Goldfish
- Price: $75
- Maximum Size: 10 inches
- Care Level: Easy
- Lifespan: Between 5-10 years
The shubunkin goldfish is a type of goldfish that is closely related to the common goldfish. It is distinguished by its long, slender body and unusual coloration. Shubunkins can be found in a variety of colors, including brown, black, white, and calico.
At prices hovering around the $75 mark, this is one of the “cheaper” fish on our list. This allows you to get a bit more variety in your tank while still staying within a reasonable budget!
9. Butterfly Tail Goldfish
- Price: Up to $80
- Maximum Size: 7 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Between 8-10 years
Butterfly tail goldfish are a beautiful variety of goldfish that get their name from their distinctive tail. This tail is fan-shaped and flares outwards, giving the fish a graceful and elegant appearance.
Butterfly goldfish require a little more care than other varieties, but are still a good option for an intermediate fishkeeper. However, you should know that this easy-going nature and unique appearance comes at a hefty price tag!
10. Red Oranda
- Price: $80
- Maximum Size: 12 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Up to 15 years
The red oranda goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its deep red coloration. It is a popular choice for both beginner and intermediate fishkeepers alike.
At first glance, the red oranda goldfish may appear to be very similar to the Ryukin goldfish. However, upon closer inspection, there are a few key differences. The most notable of these is the fact that the red oranda goldfish has a more pronounced “wen” on its head. This wen is a fleshy, protruding growth that is popular among goldfish enthusiasts.
11. Giant Thai Lionchu Goldfish
- Price: Up to $90
- Maximum Size: 6 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Up to 20 years
The giant Thai lionchu goldfish is one of the most unusual and interesting, not to mention the largest goldfish on our list. Its name is derived from its resemblance to both a lion and a goldfish, and it is particularly prized for its coloration.
This fish requires intermediate care, as it is a bit more difficult to keep than other goldfish. However, if you are willing to put in a little extra effort, the reward is a truly unique fish that will be the envy of all your friends!
12. Ryukin Goldfish
- Price: $120
- Maximum Size: 10 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Up to 20 years
The ryukin goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its long, flowing fins and deep, red coloration. It is a popular choice for both beginner and intermediate fishkeepers alike.
Though it is possible to find ryukin goldfish sold for around $15, more expensive specimens can fetch prices up to $120. However, enthusiasts agree that this fish is worth the investment, as it is both beautiful and hardy.
13. Panda Oranda
- Price: $120
- Maximum Size: 9 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Up to 15 years
Goldfish enthusiasts are no strangers to the panda oranda goldfish. This type of goldfish is characterized by its black and white markings, as well as its long, slender body shape.
At $120, it often elicits sticker shock from those who are not familiar with this type of goldfish. However, those who are willing to pay the price will be rewarded with a fish that is not only beautiful but also hardy and resilient. The panda oranda goldfish can easily thrive in a wide variety of water conditions and is a great choice for those who are looking to add a bit of color to their tanks.
14. Red and White Short-Tail Ryukin Goldfish
- Price: $130
- Maximum Size: 8 inches
- Care Level: Beginner
- Lifespan: Up to 10 years
The red and white short-tail Ryukin goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its short, stubby body and red and white coloration. This is a hardy fish that is resistant to disease and is a great choice for those who are just starting out with goldfish keeping.
Although it is a hardy fish, the red and white short-tail ryukin goldfish does require some basic care. It should be kept in a tank that is at least 30 gallons and should be fed a diet of quality goldfish food.
15. Red Cap Oranda Goldfish
- Price: $150
- Maximum Size: 12 inches
- Care Level: Intermediate
- Lifespan: Up to 15 years
The red cap oranda goldfish is a type of goldfish that is characterized by its bright red head. This coloration is typically quite striking and can be a great addition to any tank.
As with other types of oranda goldfish, the red cap oranda goldfish is a popular choice for both beginner and intermediate fishkeepers. Show-quality fish can cost upward of $300, but those who are looking for a beautiful, healthy fish that is just starting to grow its wen can find a good deal on a red cap oranda goldfish for around $150.
16. Giant Oranda Goldfish
- Price: $200
- Maximum Size: 18 inches
- Care Level: Advanced
- Lifespan: Up to 20 years
The giant oranda goldfish is the largest type of oranda goldfish and can grow up to 18 inches in length. This is a beautiful fish, but it is also a demanding one that requires a lot of space and care.
Due to its size, the giant oranda goldfish is best suited for those who have a large enough space to accommodate its needs. However, due to its relative rarity, enthusiasts will need to be prepared to pay a high price for this fish. Giant oranda goldfish can sell for as much as $200 at auction.
17. Tosakin Goldfish
- Price: Up to $300
- Maximum Size: Up to 8 inches
- Care Level: Advanced
- Lifespan: Up to 15 years
The tosakin goldfish is a type of goldfish that is distinguished by its unique body shape and long, flowing fins. This is a beautiful fish that can be quite expensive, with prices for top-quality specimens reaching as high as $300.
As one might surmise, these fish are actually rather difficult to locate outside of Japan, where they are native. They are, however, available for purchase online and can be found in various pet stores across the United States.
What Affects Goldfish Price?
Before delving into the most expensive goldfish breeds, it’s important to understand what factors can affect the price of a goldfish. The following are some of the key factors that can affect goldfish price:
Gender
Hobbyists looking for a bargain may be intrigued to learn that female goldfish are a lot cheaper than their male counterparts. Although males are prized for their bright colors and fins, females are just as colorful and come in a variety of shapes and sizes.
If your goal is to breed goldfish, then it’s important to buy at least two males and one female to maximize your odds of success. Goldfish can start breeding at just a few months old, so if you’re lucky, you may be able to get a breeding pair for less than the price of a single male.
Age
As with most animals, the older a goldfish gets, the more expensive it becomes. This is because older fish are harder to find and often have unique features that make them more prized by collectors. These include long fins, exotic colors, and an interesting backstory.
In addition, older fish are more likely to have been bred from champion bloodlines, making them even more valuable. If you’re looking for a show-quality goldfish, be prepared to pay a higher price.
Color
The color of a goldfish can also affect its price. The more rare and exotic the color, the more expensive the fish will be. This is particularly true for metallic colors such as gold, platinum, and iridescent, all of which are prized by many collectors because of their rarity.
Some goldfish are also bred to be albino, meaning they have no coloration at all. These fish are the most prized of all and can fetch prices in the thousands of dollars.
Breed
The most popular goldfish species may not necessarily translate into the most expensive. In fact, some of the rarest and most exotic goldfish breeds can fetch staggering prices at auction.
Fancy goldfish species, such as the Oranda and the Lionhead, are generally considered to be more expensive than the common goldfish. This is because they are harder to breed and are not as widely available.
In addition, some breeds of goldfish are considered more valuable than others. The Japanese Telescope, for example, is a highly prized breed that can sell for thousands of dollars.
Size
The largest goldfish can be the most expensive, particularly if they are of a rare or exotic breed. This is because they are harder to find and often command a higher price.
The current record holder for the world’s largest goldfish is a fish named “Goliath”. Goliath was auctioned at an auction in the UK for £1,000 (about $1,600 USD).
Conclusion
There you have it – a rundown of some of the world’s most expensive goldfish. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fishkeeper, there’s sure to be a type of goldfish that catches your eye. So, why not add one of these beautiful creatures to your tank today?
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I am a beginner with a 75 gallon tank and a C-530 marineland canister filter. Would a 4 foot spray wand keep water flow under control? I plan on stocking with slow swimming fancy goldfish. The C-530 will clean the tank 7.5 times an hour. Please help. Thanks