Core Cast and Their Roles
The History Channel series features a core team operating the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas. Rick Harrison, the lead, and his father Richard "Old Man" Harrison are the longest-tenured on-camera figures. Corey "Big Hoss" Harrison, Rick's son, handles daily operations and high-value inventory decisions. Austin "Chumlee" Russell serves as the shop's generalist and buyer, often focusing on collectibles and appraisal rounds. The cast structure reflects a family-run dealership model with distinct operational roles.
The show's format relies on documented transactions, negotiation sequences, and appraisal segments. Each episode typically presents items brought in by customers, with the team evaluating historical significance, market demand, and resale potential. The shop's inventory spans vintage firearms, Hollywood memorabilia, rare coins, and machinery. The series has aired over 300 episodes across more than 20 seasons, establishing a consistent on-screen framework centered on the Harrison family and their staff.
Compensation, Net Worth, and Business Structure
Cast compensation has been reported through industry sources and interviews. Rick Harrison has publicly stated the show's cast members are paid per episode, with figures varying by tenure and role. As of recent reporting, Rick Harrison's net worth is estimated in the tens of millions of dollars, derived from the shop's revenue, the series, and related ventures. Corey Harrison's net worth has been cited in similar ranges, reflecting his expanded responsibilities and on-screen presence.
The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop operates as a licensed pawnbroker in Las Vegas, subject to Nevada regulatory oversight. The business generates revenue through pawn loans, outright sales, and consignment items. The shop's physical location at 713 Las Vegas Boulevard South has become a tourist destination, with walk-in visits and merchandise sales contributing to overall income. The franchise extends to branded merchandise and licensing arrangements tied to the series.
Regulatory Context and Industry Standing
Pawnbroking in the United States is regulated at the state level, with licensing requirements, interest rate caps, and reporting obligations. Nevada's pawn industry is overseen by the Nevada Department of Business and Industry, which sets rules for pawn transactions, record-keeping, and consumer disclosures. The Gold & Silver Pawn Shop complies with these state regulations, including federal requirements under the Bank Secrecy Act for reporting certain transactions.
The pawn industry serves as a credit alternative for consumers, with the National Pawnbrokers Association representing sector interests. Industry data shows pawn loans account for a small share of short-term credit markets, with default rates and loan sizes tracked by regulatory agencies. The sector's visibility increased significantly with the series, drawing public attention to appraisal practices and retail pawn operations. For broader financial context on consumer credit markets, see the SEC and for industry trade data, see the Forbes.