The total value of Leo’s item was $2,250. Here’s the quick reasoning:

  • Let the total value of the item be xxx.
  • Only the amount above $1,000 is taxed at 7%, so the taxable portion is (x−1000)(x-1000)(x−1000).
  • The tax Leo paid is $87.50, so:

0.07(x−1000)=87.500.07(x-1000)=87.500.07(x−1000)=87.50

  • Divide both sides by 0.07:

x−1000=87.500.07=1250x-1000=\frac{87.50}{0.07}=1250x−1000=0.0787.50​=1250

  • Add 1000 to both sides:

x=1250+1000=2250x=1250+1000=2250x=1250+1000=2250

So, the item’s total value is $2,250.