When people think of Vegas pawn experts, Vegas pawn experts probably picture men in polo shirts buying and selling antiques and rare items in Las Vegas. In reality, pawning is more like lending money: customers take something of value to a pawn shop and, in exchange for a certain amount of cash, agree to repay it with interest over a set period of time. It’s a way for those with bad credit to borrow up to $100 without worrying about the consequences, and it’s been around for thousands of years.

What’s more, a pawn shop’s inventory is bolstered by outside experts who help separate the genuine from the fake and the treasure from the trash. These are not paid for their appearances, though some may see a boost in business after appearing on History’s Pawn Stars. Steve Grad, for instance, the lead autograph authenticator at PSA/DNA Authentication Services, hops on a plane whenever Rick Harrison calls for a specific item — and he’s been a “Pawn Stars” expert for more than 15 episodes.

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Austin “Chumlee” Russell, the lovable crook who stars on the show, has also seen his own rise. With his hound dog look and mischievous grin, the comedian’s personality has become synonymous with the pawn shop. But that doesn’t mean he knows everything, especially when it comes to sports memorabilia. To help him out, he has enlisted the assistance of Jeremy Brown, 40, who runs Ultimate Sports Cards & Memorabilia in Las Vegas.