What articles pawnbrokers will accept: Usually, items that are small or of modest value: Jewelry, musical instruments, clocks, typewriters, cameras, radios. silverware. etc.
Brokers won't lend more money than they think they can get if the pledged item isn't redeemed and has to be sold.
When a pledge isn't redeemed: Brokers are usually required to notify pawners that the loan period has expired and to give them a final opportunity to redeem their pledge before the broker has the right to sell the item. In some jurisdictions, brokers may keep all the money received from the sale of unredeemed pledges. Under other codes, they may recover the cost of the loan made plus interest due, but must turn any excess over to the pawner.
Stolen property: In many states brokers are legally obliged to file with police daily lists of items pledged. They must give the object's description, serial number, etc. This gives the police a chance to check the items against property reported stolen. lf somebody buys a stolen item from a pawnbroker, it must be returned, and the broker must refund the purchase price to the customer.