Posh Pawn Star Reveals Most Extraordinary Items Ever Sold
James Constantinou, the founder of Prestige Pawnbrokers and a star of Channel 4's hit show Posh Pawn, has exclusively disclosed the most astonishing items he has ever sold. His remarkable inventory has included everything from the world's largest pearl and Queen Victoria's monogrammed underwear to a fully functional submarine.
From Obscurity to Television Fame
Constantinou shot to prominence after participating in Posh Pawn, which premiered in 2014 as a one-off documentary before expanding into four successful series. The programme chronicled the daily operations of his high-end pawnbroking business, assisting clients in selling a variety of luxurious and unique assets.
In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Constantinou recounted some of the most memorable items that have passed through his shops. 'We've had instruments played by The Rolling Stones and The Who, including guitars and drum kits,' he revealed. 'We've also handled the world's largest pearl, Queen Victoria's underwear, Nigerian fighter jets, and submarines. It's been quite a roller coaster ride with the assets we've seen.'
The Genesis of a Television Phenomenon
The inception of Posh Pawn was somewhat serendipitous. Constantinou explained that a researcher contacted him to gauge his interest in a programme focused on asset lending or alternative borrowing. Initially apprehensive, he eventually allowed cameras into his store, a decision that would transform his business and public perception.
He recalled the researcher's enthusiastic feedback to Channel 4: 'I think I've struck gold here. I've got a cross between Antiques Roadshow, Only Fools and Horses, and Lovejoy.' A crew was promptly dispatched to film a reel, and Constantinou instantly recognised the potential. 'I knew that if this ever got aired on TV, it would be absolutely phenomenal for me and our business,' he said.
Transforming an Industry and Business Boom
The show's impact was immediate and profound. Constantinou noted that it helped modernise an industry he described as 'a little bit stuck in the dark ages.' Following the broadcast, his business experienced a significant surge in demand. 'We couldn't cope. We had two phones and were running around winging it, but it was working for us,' he admitted. The increased visibility attracted competitors seeking to engage with higher-end items, effectively altering the pawnbroking landscape.
Despite dealing with immensely valuable objects, Constantinou's personal interests lie elsewhere. 'I'm not into luxury items like watches or jewellery. I don't wear them,' he confessed. His passion has always been classic cars, having owned numerous models from E-Type Jaguars to Ferraris and Rolls-Royces. However, he now finds satisfaction in more modest treasures. 'I can go into a junk shop and see a little vase I like. It doesn't have to be expensive; the name means nothing to me,' he emphasised.
A Potential Revival and Expanded Enterprise
More than a decade after the show's debut, Constantinou believes the time is ripe for a new series. His business has expanded considerably, now operating eight stores in prime locations across the UK, including central London, Surrey, and Manchester. 'When they first came on board, I had one tiny shop. Now I have eight beautiful stores, some retailing like Harrods in Chelsea,' he explained.
Reflecting on the possibility of a revival, he stated, 'If Channel 4 approached me again, they'd have a lot more material now. I'd probably be up for it.' This expansion not only offers richer content but also underscores how Posh Pawn reshaped both his career and the public's view of pawnbroking as a sophisticated and dynamic industry.
