Wondering what I can pawn for $500? If you need cash for an emergency, you are not alone.
Research shows that four in ten households in the US would not be able to cover emergency costs of $400. And that research has been carried out for the recent global chaos of lockdowns and layoffs, so it’s likely the situation isn’t much better these days.
If you’re struggling with expenses but have little savings, you may be looking around your house and wondering, “What can I pawn for $500?” Below you will find some ideas.
Please note: Pawning is only a good option if you want the ability to repurchase the item at a later date. Otherwise, you can usually make more money by selling your item directly on a platform like eBay or to a local buyer.
What can I pawn for $500? $1000, $100 or just $50?
When you pawn an item, you can expect to receive 30-70% of its value, depending on the individual store and the condition of the item.
So to make $500 from pawning a single item, its actual value must be greater than $500. Here are some items that may fall into that category.
Pawn vehicles for $500 or more
If you need a large amount of cash quickly, selling or pawning your vehicle or taking out a title loan may be an option. Your vehicle must be running, in good condition and have a paid-off title (no car loans).
The amount you can get for your vehicle can vary depending on the make, model, mileage, and condition. If you pawn your vehicle, the pawn shop will hold your car and you won’t be able to drive it until you pay it off.
With a title loan (which is only available in a limited number of states), you may be able to keep your vehicle as long as your payments are current. Be sure to discuss your options with the pawnbroker and read your paperwork carefully to make sure you understand the details before signing.
Pawn technology for $500
Your tech collection is the perfect place to look for an item you can pawn worth $500.
Smartphones can have a resale or pawn value of up to $350 if you have one of the latest models.
Because you only make a fraction of the value at a pawn shop, it may be difficult to make $500 by pawning just one phone, but you may have several lying around.
Older cell phone models may be eligible for pawn, but expect to receive less for older phones, especially if they are in poor condition.
Laptops or desktop computers (especially newer and more expensive versions such as game consoles) can often be worth €500+ and yield a good return at a pawn shop.
A MacBook can also get a nice price. Cheaper computers and laptops can also be pawned, but expect to receive lower amounts.
Computers and devices that are older and in poor condition may not qualify for pawn or receive significantly less.
Make sure you back up your files before pawning your computer so you can access them.
Televisions are now very affordable to buy new, which also means they don’t have as much pawn value.
Smaller TVs (less than 32 inches) can get deals from $25-$40 at a pawn shop. Larger TVs can receive up to $200 if they are newer and in good condition. Older TVs and certain brands may qualify for lower amounts.
If you have a broken TV, check out these places where you can sell your broken TV.
DSLR cameras can be pawned if they are in good condition. The amount you receive depends on the brand and the accessories (such as extra lenses) you have. Payment amounts for pawned cameras can range from $10 to $300.
Wearable gadgets such as smart watches or luxury headphones can vary in the amount of money you receive.
Depending on the model and condition, Apple watches can fetch between $20 and $130. High-end headphones can cost up to $100.
Pawn tools for $500
Do you have a shed full of tools that you rarely use? Placing them in a pawn until you need them again can get you through an emergency.
Not all pawn shops accept all types of equipment, but you can call around and ask about tools such as:
- Lawn mowers
- Drill sets
- Electric saws
- Air compressors
- Sanders
- Generators
- Plumbing equipment
- Key sets
- Mechanical tools
- Etc.
The most important things that determine the value of your tool are its brand and condition. You may have to pawn multiple tools to reach $500.
If you want to make more money, you can also consider selling your tools.
Pawn jewelry for $500
Jewelry is often one of the first things people think of pawning, and for good reason. It is (A) often of high value and (B) something you can easily live without for as long as necessary.
The only sticking point is whether there is sentimental value, but ultimately your financial well-being trumps most physical possessions.
Start with the low-stakes jewelry that’s easier to part with:
- Chains
- Bracelets
- Watches
- Earrings
- Chains
The last resort is family heirlooms and engagement or wedding rings. If you are faced with difficult circumstances, I believe your ancestors would be happy to help you.
With rings you and your partner can temporarily replace the expensive bands with cheap alternatives. You can also pawn precious metals in non-jewelry forms, such as a collection of gold or silver coins.
Pawn musical instruments/equipment for $500
If you have musical talent, your instrument can feel like an extension of yourself. Or maybe it’s forgotten in a closet, collecting dust because you’re too busy to play. (I speak from experience – I’m looking at you, closet violin.)
Guitars, cellos and other instruments valued at $1,000 or more can fetch you several hundred dollars at a pawn shop.
Recording or DJ equipment also falls into this category. If you’ve been in a band or dabbled in recording music, podcasts, YouTube videos, etc., you may have professional-quality microphones or speakers. Amplifiers are also a popular pawned item.
Pawn sports equipment/vehicles for $500
This is also a good idea for pawning as you can live without recreational items (even if life is a little less fun for a while).
Think of all the ‘toys’ you have for the weekends or summers:
- Jet skis
- Nice kayaks
- ATVs
- Snowboards or skis
- Hunting or fishing equipment
- Golf Clubs
- Misuse
- Mopeds or motorcycles
Pawn or sell several cheaper items together
If you don’t have many items worth more than $500, that’s fine. In fact, that’s a good thing, because it probably means you’re financially responsible and resist impulse buying!
Instead, search through your home, attic, and garage for anything you don’t use often. Small kitchen appliances, shoes/clothing/accessories from a good brand like Hugo Boss, video game discs and other household items can all add up.
No more things to pawn or sell? Discover 36 more ways to make money fast.