Kin Showa are metallic Showa-type koi with red, white, and black patterning. They combine the wrapping sumi associated with Showa with a reflective skin finish. The metallic quality is a defining feature, so the variety should not be identified from its three colors alone.
Kin Showa Photos
How to Identify Kin Showa
- Red, white, and black arranged in a Showa-style pattern.
- Persistent metallic luster visible as the fish changes angle.
- Black that can extend onto the head and around the body.
Compare Similar Varieties
Compare Showa for the non-metallic counterpart. Yamato Nishiki is a metallic Sanke-type fish, with a different typical sumi arrangement. Ginrin Showa sparkle at individual scales; this is different from the continuous skin sheen of Kin Showa. A bright sun reflection in one photograph does not prove either description.
Choosing and Observing Kin Showa
Kin Showa belongs to the metallic Showa and Utsuri family, Hikari Utsurimono, rather than the ordinary metallic-patterned grouping. When comparing individuals, look for luster and a readable pattern together. A bold sumi band can obscure parts of the sheen, so check the head, sides, and fins in a video rather than judging from one flash of light.
For the complete visual directory, see koi varieties. Before purchasing, review buying koi and quarantine.