Find out approximately what pawn shops will pay for your gold jewelry, coins, or bullion. This free pawn shop gold calculator estimates your gold’s value and what pawn shops might offer. Enter your gold’s weight, purity, and current market price for instant results.
Get an instant estimate of your gold’s pawn value in 3 steps
- Enter your gold’s weight and unit
- Select the karat purity
- Add the current gold price and payout rate
Why Use This Calculator?
Selling gold can feel overwhelming, especially when prices fluctuate, and offers differ from shop to shop. The calculator simplifies things by using standard industry formulas:
- Convert the gold spot price to per-gram value (since 1 troy ounce = 31.1035 grams).
- Calculate the pure gold content: Total weight × (karat / 24).
- Determine the melt value: Pure gold weight × price per gram.
- Apply the payout rate to estimate the pawn shop offer.
For example, as of late January 2026, gold spot prices are around $5,260 per troy ounce. At this rate, pure gold (24K) is worth approximately $169 per gram. A 14K item (58.3% pure) would have a melt value of about $99 per gram before any payout reduction.
Key Factors Pawn Shops Consider
Pawn shops evaluate gold based on objective measures rather than sentimental value.
- Weight: Measured in grams on certified scales. Even small pieces add up.
- Purity (Karat): 24K is pure gold; common jewelry karats include:
- 10K: 41.7% gold
- 14K: 58.3% gold
- 18K: 75% gold
- 22K–24K: Higher for coins or bullion
- Current Spot Price: Updated daily from global markets, influenced by economic factors, demand, and supply.
- Condition and Type: Jewelry may include stones or craftsmanship that add minor value, but most offers focus on melt value (the worth if melted down). Coins or bullion often receive higher percentages due to standardized purity.
Testing methods include acid tests, electronic testers, or XRF machines to confirm the karat accurately.
Why Pawn Shop Offers Are Lower Than Market Value
Pawn shops typically offer 40–70% of the calculated melt value for outright sales. This range accounts for:
- Operating costs (rent, staff, security)
- Profit margin
- Risk (market fluctuations, potential non-redemption on loans)
- Quick cash convenience
For pawn loans (where you keep ownership and can reclaim the item), offers may reach 70% or more since the shop expects most customers to repay. Outright sales often fall in the 50–60% range.
Gold Purity Comparison Table
Here’s how different karats translate to value at a $5,260/oz spot price (approx. $169/gram for pure gold):
| Karat | Purity (%) | Approx. Melt Value per Gram | Example: 10g Item Melt Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10K | 41.7 | $70.65 | $706.50 |
| 14K | 58.3 | $98.78 | $987.80 |
| 18K | 75.0 | $127.08 | $1,270.80 |
| 24K | 99.9 | $169.00 | $1,690.00 |
Note: These are melt values before payout reduction. Use our calculator for your specific inputs.
Typical Pawn Shop Payout Rates
Payouts vary by shop, location, and item type:
- Scrap jewelry: 40–60%
- High-karat or bullion: 60–70%
- Pawn loans: Up to 70–80% (higher due to redemption expectation)
Always get quotes from multiple shops, as competition can improve offers.
Tips for Getting the Best Offer
- Check the current spot price before visiting—use reliable sources like Kitco or our calculator.
- Weigh and test at home if possible—digital scales and simple acid kits help verify.
- Separate karats—don’t mix different purities in one lot.
- Clean gently—remove dirt but avoid heavy polishing, which can reduce weight.
- Shop around—visit 2–3 reputable pawn shops for quotes.
- Bring documentation—receipts or appraisals may help.
- Consider timing—prices are high now, but monitor trends.
Alternatives to Pawn Shops
If pawn shop offers don’t meet expectations, consider these options:
| Option | Typical Payout | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pawn Shop | 40–70% | Fast cash, no credit check | Lower percentage, local variation |
| Jewelry Buyer/Refiner | 70–90% | Higher rates for scrap | May require shipping or appointment |
| Online Buyers (e.g., Kitco) | 80–95% | Convenient, competitive | Shipping fees, wait time |
| Local Jeweler | 60–85% | In-person evaluation | May focus on resale value |
Online buyers and refiners often pay more for melt value but involve more steps.
Selling gold is a decision worth taking your time with.
Use the calculator to get a realistic sense of your items’ value, then compare offers from a few reputable shops.
If you’re curious about the exact math pawn shops use and the key factors behind their offers, our detailed guide on how pawn shops calculate gold value explains everything in clear, straightforward language.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How accurate is the pawn shop gold calculator?
It’s a reliable estimate based on standard formulas. Actual offers depend on the shop’s evaluation and current conditions.
Do pawn shops pay more for gold coins than jewelry?
Yes, coins and bullion often receive higher percentages due to standardized purity and easier resale.
What if my gold has gemstones?
Stones may add value if high-quality, but most offers focus on the gold melt. Ask the shop to evaluate separately.
Is it better to pawn or sell outright?
Pawning offers higher advance amounts and lets you reclaim your item. Selling is final but provides immediate full cash.
How do I find a reputable pawn shop?
Look for licensed shops, positive reviews, and membership in organizations like the National Pawnbrokers Association.