Estimate a loan on a guitar
We do not guess resale prices. Check recent sold listings for the same model and condition, then type the figure.
| Share of value | Loan | Max 1st-month charge |
|---|---|---|
| 30% | — | — |
| 50% | — | — |
| 70% | — | — |
Scenarios, not offers. Each shop sets its own percentage; the charge column is the maximum your state allows.
How pawn shops value a guitar
- Brand, model and serial number are checked (they also date the instrument).
- The shop plays it and checks neck, frets, electronics and hardware.
- Original cases and documentation add value.
- Modifications and repairs can lower the value of collectible guitars.
What to bring
- A government-issued photo ID.
- The case, strap and any original paperwork.
- Amps with their power cords.
Change strings and clean the guitar before you go. For rare instruments, ask more than one shop, since knowledge of the market varies.
How much of the value will they lend?
There is no standard percentage. FirstCash, which runs Cash America, First Cash and other pawn chains, says in its annual report that the loan "typically is based on a percentage of the estimated sale value of the collateral", that it does not use a standard or mandated percentage, and that store employees set it item by item (FirstCash 2012 Form 10-K). That is why offers for the same item vary from shop to shop. The calculator above shows scenarios so you can compare offers you get.
What the loan costs
The charge is set by state law, whatever you pawn. Check the maximum for your state and amount:
Pawn loan cost by state
$40
maximum charge for the first month
- Total charges
- $40
- To get your item back
- $240
- Monthly rate
- 20.0%
Maximum allowed by state law. A pawn shop can charge less; your pawn ticket shows the real amount.
Pawn shops near you
Results
Enter a ZIP code or use your location to see the nearest pawn shops, with open-now status. Or browse a city: Las Vegas, San Antonio, Albuquerque, Tampa, Lincoln, Lubbock, Sioux Falls, Houston, Dallas, Columbus.
Questions
Do pawn shops take amplifiers?
Yes, especially well-known brands in working condition.
Do they take acoustic guitars?
Yes; solid-wood guitars from known brands get better offers than entry-level laminate models.