The Surprising Amount Of Money Pawn Stars Paid For A Beat Up Book
Pawn Stars is famous for its loveable cast, the rare and unique (but sometimes not) finds that customers bring into the shop, and the impressive deals that the crew makes each episode. Season 7 was no exception, as even Rick was visibly impressed by a first-edition illustrated copy of John Milton's epic poem Paradise Lost. Though the book had clearly seen better days, the intricate illustrations were enough for Rick to ask for a second opinion.
To get a hand authenticating the classic tome and ensuring its legitimacy, Rick brought in Rebecca Romney, the manager at the Las Vegas Gallery of Bauman Rare Books, to give her professional take on the book's worth. Romney gave some background information on the epic poem before diving in to her appraisal, and while viewers were undoubtedly expecting an impressive amount, they may have been shocked to hear just how much value Romney placed on the book.
A first edition and a great deal
Though the customer Gary's copy of Paradise Lost was coming apart at the seams and had extensive water damage, Romney noted this particular copy was not only from the 1860s, but also the first appearance of the Gustave Doré illustrated edition. Doré is one of the most celebrated French artists of the 19th century, and Romney pointed out that his works are highly sought after on their own, making the book even more valuable. Apart from the illustrations, Romney went on to assert that Paradise Lost is arguably the most important poem in the English language, and Milton is almost as influential as Shakespeare.
After waxing poetic about the book and its art, Romney gave her appraisal for a copy in better condition, without the damage and binding issues that Gary's had: up to about $2000-$2500. As for Gary's edition, she estimated $400-$500 — which luckily for Gary, was almost exactly what he was hoping for.
Rick ultimately settled for an impressive $225 for the book due to its condition, but with some TLC and professional restoration, it could be worth a lot more in the future.