Rick Harrison, ‘Pawn Stars’ owner, splurges on historic rock ‘n’ roll guitar
Rick Harrison, the owner of the famous America pawn shop featured on “Pawn Stars,” is known for his tough negotiations and frugality. However, even he could not resist splurging on a piece of rock ‘n’ roll history that was brought into his shop. Landon, a guitar collector, appeared on the show with a 1941 Gibson SJ-200. This guitar belonged to the iconic singer and songwriter Stephen Stills, known for his association with Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young.
Landon shared the history behind the guitar, mentioning that he had acquired it through an auction a few months prior. He expressed his desire to sell the guitar, which piqued Harrison’s interest. The host was in awe of the artifact, acknowledging Stephen Stills’ significant influence on music during the 1960s, particularly with songs such as “For What It’s Worth.” Harrison recognized Stills’ induction into the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame twice, a testament to his lasting impact on the music industry.
During the episode, Landon presented documents proving the guitar’s authenticity, including a signed bill of sale from the previous collector. The paperwork added to the item’s allure, leading Harrison to consider its value as an investment. With an asking price of $110,000, Landon’s negotiations with Harrison were tense, with the host initially offering $80,000. However, after back-and-forth discussions, they settled on a final price of $85,000.
An expert called in to authenticate the guitar, Jesse Amoroso, confirmed its historical significance as a 1941 SJ-200, declaring it a prized possession. Despite some wear and tear, the expert estimated the guitar’s value to be between $75,000 to $90,000, with Stephen Stills’ association adding an additional $20,000 to $30,000. Amoroso emphasized the rarity of the instrument, stating that it was a unique find and an invaluable addition to any collection.
In the end, the deal was sealed at $85,000, much to Landon’s delight as it exceeded his expectations. Harrison was pleased with the acquisition, recognizing the guitar’s cultural and musical significance. The transaction not only showcased Harrison’s willingness to invest in exceptional items but also highlighted the enduring legacy of artists like Stephen Stills. The episode served as a reminder of how historical artifacts hold intrinsic value beyond monetary worth, bridging the past with the present to preserve the rich tapestry of music history.