Yes, pawn shops commonly buy silverware, but they typically only purchase items made of or other high-purity silver alloys. Most pawn shops do not buy silver-plated flatware because it has almost no "melt value" (the value of the raw metal if melted down). How to Tell if Your Silverware is Valuable

: While some rare or high-end brands like Tiffany & Co. , Gorham, or Wallace may fetch a premium, most pawn shops focus strictly on the weight of the metal.

: Real silver is not magnetic. If a strong magnet sticks firmly to your fork or spoon, it is likely silver-plated over a steel or iron core.