Ep 4. Rick and the Heartbreakers

In this episode of Pawn Stars season 17, episode 4 titled "Rick and the Heartbreakers," Rick takes the lead in evaluating a diverse array of items. The episode opens with him examining a rare vinyl record that bears the signatures of all four members of The Beatles. As usual, Rick is meticulous in his evaluation, carefully scrutinizing the item, its provenance, and its market value, before making an offer.

Next up, a seller brings in an elegant (and heavy) antique cash register that is nearly a century old. The cash register features intricate carvings and has a distinctive Art Nouveau design that catches Rick's attention right away. He examines the piece closely, checks its mechanical components, and determines that it is in excellent condition. However, the seller's asking price is well above what Rick considers fair market value, and he negotiates a counteroffer.

Another seller brings in a vintage Coca-Cola vending machine from the 1950s. The machine is a pristine example of mid-century design aesthetics, with its iconic red color, chrome accents, and large glass bottle dispensing mechanism. Rick and the seller haggle over the price, with Rick being mindful of the operational condition of the machine, as well as its rarity and charm.

In keeping with the music theme established in the opening segment, a talent scout for a well-known music label visits the pawn shop to sell a Fender Stratocaster guitar that purportedly belonged to a famous rock-n-roller. Rick and Corey are immediately drawn to the sleek black guitar, and they try to authenticate its provenance by checking it against other instruments owned by the same rocker. However, they are not fully convinced of its authenticity and decide to consult with an expert before making an offer.

Finally, a seller brings in an antique medical device that looks like a torture device from a medieval dungeon. The device, known as a "quack medicine" gadget, was used in the early 20th century to treat everything from back pain to nervous disorders. Rick is both intrigued and horrified by the apparent brutality of the device and is initially hesitant about making an offer. He consults with an expert and discovers that the device has some historical significance, even if its medical efficacy is dubious. In the end, he makes an offer that the seller finds acceptable.

Throughout the episode, viewers get a glimpse into Rick's thought process as he evaluates each item. His attention to detail, his knack for spotting fakes, and his shrewd negotiating skills are on full display. At the same time, the sellers' stories add a personal dimension to the show, reminding viewers that each item has a history and a story behind it. Overall, "Rick and the Heartbreakers" is a compelling episode that showcases the best of what Pawn Stars has to offer.