What items do pawn shops usually accept?

Most pawn shops focus on items that hold value and resell well. Gold and silver jewelry, diamonds, watches, firearms where legal, power tools, musical instruments, electronics, game consoles, and some sporting goods are commonly accepted. Coins and bullion are also popular in many shops.

What a particular shop accepts depends on its customers and expertise. Some shops specialize in jewelry and precious metals, while others do strong business in tools or instruments. Older electronics, large furniture, and clothing are often declined because they are harder to resell.

Call ahead before bringing in something unusual, such as an antique, artwork, or collectible. A shop that does not handle those items may make a low offer or pass entirely. For specialized collectibles, an auction company, antique dealer, or consignment shop may give you a better result.