Redeeming Qualities

From far and near, they come to the Elliott Salter Gives Instant Loans pawnshop in West Hollywood. Here the rich, poor, famous, and infamous pawn, buy, sell and trade. Salter, who began working in his parents’ downtown pawnshop at age 8, has been on Santa Monica Boulevard for 36 years. Unredeemed items become sale inventory after four months unless continuing interest payments are made (interest varies from 22% to 44% yearly). Along with jewelry, cameras, silverware and musical instruments, Salter says his stock has included stuffed moose heads, grass skirts, a glass eye, Geiger counters, Department of Defense lasers, a human skeleton, Jimi Hendrix’s “fuzz face” guitar pedal and a wooden leg. “If I like it, I’ll take it,” says Salter, who claims to have turned down a submarine and a live lion. He notes that pawned goods are a staple for antique and estate dealers. “Remember, the best stuff, the most expensive stuff in the world, is all old!” We spoke with a few loyal customers.

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Rita Stone, 77, Los Angeles

Occupation: Retired nightclub singer, agent, personal manager; former secretary to Jerry Lewis.

Been here before?: Many times.

Why here today?: Checking on payments on my pawned jewelry. When my Social Security was cut $75 a month, I had to start bringing in jewelry.

Do you expect to get your things out of pawn?: Yes, and I have so far. I care about my family heirlooms.

What about interest?: It’s better than going to the bank and waiting five days.

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Gary Bieger, 35, Los Angeles

Occupation: Owner, auto body detail company.

Been here before?: Many times.

Why here today?: Getting my Rolex out of pawn.

Do you expect to get your pawned things back?: I never leave things in long. I’d be sorry if I lost them.

What about interest?: It’s low if you take things out soon.

Do pawned goods have bad karma?: No, I buy a lot of antique stuff.

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Mo Rodgers, 57, Culver City

Occupation: Blues musician.

Been here before?: Many times.

Why here today?: Buying a camera for my son, who’s a photography major in college.

Ever pawn anything here?: Yes, when I was young and didn’t have any money.

Do pawned goods have bad karma?: No. It’s recycling. You’re buying history.

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Melody Forsythe, 40, Sherman Oaks

Occupation: Actress.

Been here before?: Yes, for the past 15 years to buy gifts.

Why here today?: Buying birthday gift for friend.

Ever pawned items here?: No.

Do pawned goods have bad karma?: No. I don’t let other things affect me like that. I have my own karma. My light comes from within.