Ep 14. Sword Play

In episode 14 of season 11 of Pawn Stars, entitled Sword Play, the Las Vegas-based staff at the world-famous Gold & Silver Pawn Shop is once again faced with a variety of unusual items brought in by customers looking to strike a deal. In this particular episode, one of the most intriguing pieces to be brought in is an authentic Japanese samurai sword with a Soshu blade, which is estimated to date back to the 16th or 17th century.

As is the case with many of the items brought into the shop, the authenticity and value of the sword are hotly debated among the experts. Rick Harrison, the shop's owner, considers calling in a few outside appraisers to get their opinions and, as always, he's careful to balance his enthusiasm for the potential purchase with a clear-eyed approach to what the shop can realistically afford. Ultimately, however, the shop's team of experts have a deep enough background in swords to make an informed decision on whether to move forward with buying the piece or not.

Another intriguing item brought in during Sword Play is a collection of political campaign buttons from the 1960s and 70s. These buttons, which are supplied by a local seller, include a wide range of slogans and candidates, from Richard Nixon's "Nixon's The One" to Hubert Humphrey's "The People's Choice." The politics of the time are reflected in these buttons, and the shop's employees are able to gain some interesting insight into the issues and priorities of earlier generations.

Also featured in this episode is a relic from the old Wild West: a vintage trapdoor rifle that belonged to an ancestor of the seller. This particular rifle is from the late 1800s and features a .45-70 calibre. Rick Harrison is once again called upon to make a purchase decision, and he spends a considerable amount of time reviewing the intricacies of the rifle's design and history. As always, the shop wants to balance its interest in the unique history of the piece with a realistic view of what it could actually sell for.

Rounding out the episode is a visit from a seller who brings in a unique item with a personal connection: a framed copy of the Chicago Tribune front page from the day after the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor. This seller's father was actually the managing editor of the Tribune at the time, and the item includes his signature as well as a copy of his eyewitness account of the attack. Pawn Stars viewers are given a glimpse into the intense emotions and historical context behind this important moment in our country's history.

Overall, Pawn Stars season 11 episode 14, Sword Play, presents viewers with an intriguing and diverse range of items, all with their own unique stories and merits. With the engaging personalities of the shop's staff and the historical insights they provide, it's easy to become invested in the excitement and drama of each new item that comes through the door.