Ep 1. Boom or Bust

Pawn Stars is a popular American reality television series that showcases one of the most iconic pawn shops in the world - the Gold & Silver Pawn Shop in Las Vegas, Nevada. The shop has been in business since 1989 and is run by the Harrison family - Rick Harrison, his father Richard, and his son Corey. The show revolves around the day-to-day operations of the pawn shop, the unique items that customers bring in to sell, and the intense negotiations between the shop owners and customers over the prices of these items.

Season 1 Episode 1 of Pawn Stars is titled "Boom or Bust" and marks the beginning of a long and successful journey for the show. In this episode, the Harrison family is presented with two interesting items - a set of Royal Canadian Mounted Police issued Colt .45 ; and a vintage Pepsi machine.

The first item, the Colt .45, is presented to the Harrisons by a former police officer, Joe. Joe explains that the guns, which are still in their original shoulder holsters, were used by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and that they were issued to officers who patrolled on horseback. Rick is immediately intrigued by the set and asks Joe about their authenticity and provenance. Corey, on the other hand, is more interested in the mechanics of the guns and tries to figure out how they function. After some negotiations, Rick offers Joe a price for the guns, and Joe decides to take it.

The second item, the vintage Pepsi machine, is brought in by a man named Clint. Clint acquired the machine from a friend but has no use for it, and he hopes to sell it to the pawn shop to make a quick buck. The Harrisons examine the machine and notice that it is a classic 1950s model that is in exceptional condition. The family discusses the potential value of the machine, and important details are gathered surrounding it. However, negotiations become a bit tense as the family and Clint are in disagreement about the value. However, in the end, a deal is reached, Clint accepts the price offered by Rick, and he leaves with cash in hand.

Throughout the episode, viewers get to see the unique and unusual items that people bring into the pawn shop and the insights of the store owners. The Harrisons offer entertaining commentary and insight into the history and value of the items brought in, and the viewers get to witness the intense negotiations that take place as the family tries to strike a deal with the customers. There are a few amusing moments in the episode, such as when Chumlee attempts to fix a broken slot machine - with comical results.

Overall, "Boom or Bust" is a fascinating and engaging episode that sets the pace for the rest of the series. The show offers a glimpse into the world of pawn shops, the value of historical and unique items, and the art of negotiation. The Harrison family's knowledge and expertise coupled with their charming personalities make them an endearing and engaging cast to follow throughout the series. The show sets the tone for what's to come, entertaining negotiations, historical tidbits, and the unique and interesting things that come through the door. It is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good deal or is interested in the world of antiques and collectibles.