National Pawnbrokers Day

Prasenjit Das
Dec 22, 2023 By Prasenjit Das
Originally Published on Feb 25, 2022
Fact-checked by Naman Khanna
Celebrate National Pawnbrokers Day in honor of St. Nicholas.

Where is National Pawnbrokers Day celebrated?

The American people observe December 6 as National Pawnbrokers Day while to the rest of the world, it is known as St. Nicholas Day.

Who is National Pawnbrokers Day celebrated by?

The day, December 6, is celebrated by pawnbrokers, the customers, and the people associated with the National Pawnbrokers Association.

When did National Pawnbrokers Day first start?

The origin of National Pawnbrokers Day is yet to be discovered.

Who started National Pawnbrokers Day?

No information is available on the creator of this day, but a few years back the National Pawnbrokers Association started an event called Musical Instrument Gift Day on December 6. On this day, pawnbrokers donate musical instruments to various organizations in need across the country.

History And Timeline

Before discussing how the day, December 6, can be celebrated, let's learn about some events related to the history of pawnbrokers.

Origin Of Pawnbrokers

The first pawnbrokers originated in ancient China approximately 3,000 years ago. Ancient Greek and Roman Empires also showed some evidence of harboring some of the earliest pawnbrokers.

3,000 Years Ago

King Edward Goes To A Pawn Shop

To fund his war against France, King Edward III pawned his jewelry.

1388

The Monte di Pietà

The Monte di Pietà initiative was started by Barnaba Manassei in Italy.

1450

The Pawnbrokers Act Passed

The Act was passed in 1872 to protect all the pawnbrokers who sold stolen goods unknowingly.

1872

Founding Of NPA

To support independent pawnbrokers, The National Pawnbrokers Association was established as a trade association.

1987

Traditions And Customs

Pawnbroking is a very old profession. It originated in ancient China. Traces of pawn shops can also be found in ancient Greek and Roman Empires. There are some activities you can do to celebrate the day, like shopping at a pawn shop.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Pawnbrokers Day

The history of pawnbrokers is very interesting. There are many books available on this topic.

As a way of celebrating the day on December 6, you can read those books and learn more about the profession. Pawnbrokers are also known for making generous donations, especially of musical instruments. So, you could also donate a musical instrument to an organization so that poor children and war veterans can pursue their passion.

Facts And Stats

  • In the USA, there are 13,000 pawn shops. Most of these shops are privately owned and some are also small family businesses. Another reason why this event should be celebrated more widely.
  • Did you know that National Pawnbrokers Day and St Nicholas Day are celebrated on the same day?
  • Pawnbrokers have not always been considered to be lifesavers. To undermine counterfeit pawnbrokers, an act was passed against them between 1603-1872 in England. Back then nobody imagined that there would ever be a day dedicated to these people.

Is pawnbroking legal?

Yes. There are many laws that protect them and their profession.

How much do pawnbrokers charge?

Pawnbrokers charge from 5% to 12% a month.

How many pawnbrokers are there in the UK?

There are more than 850 pawnbrokers in the UK.

Who encouraged the celebration of National Pawnbrokers Day?

No information is available on this person, but the day, December 6, is celebrated on St. Nicholas Day, the patron saint of pawnbroking.

Who invented the concept of National Pawnbrokers Day?

It is yet to be discovered who the creator of this day is.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Saturday, December 05, 2020
  • Sunday, December 05, 2021
  • Monday, December 05, 2022
  • Tuesday, December 05, 2023
  • Thursday, December 05, 2024

We Want Your Photos!
We Want Your Photos!

We Want Your Photos!

Do you have a photo you are happy to share that would improve this article?
Email your photos

More for You

Sources

https://www.theguardian.com/society/2006/oct/20/socialexclusion.lifeandhealth

https://happydays365.org/pawnbrokers-day/national-pawnbrokers-day-december-6/amp/

https://nationaldaycalendar.com/national-pawnbrokers-day-december-6/

https://nationaltoday.com/national-pawnbrokers-day/

https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/pawnbrokers-day/

https://www.nationaldaystoday.com/national-pawnbrokers-day/

See All

Written by Prasenjit Das

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature, Master of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature

Prasenjit Das picture

Prasenjit DasBachelor of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature, Master of Arts specializing in English Language and Literature

Having obtained a Bachelor's degree in English language and literature from West Bengal State University - Barrackpore Rastraguru Surendranath College, followed by a Master's degree in English language and literature from Calcutta University, Prasenjit has several years of experience as a content writer, Prasenjit has mastered the art of producing cohesive and coherent copy. To further refine his skills and continuously challenge his creativity, Prasenjit successfully completed the "Introduction to Creative Writing Course" offered by British Council. Outside of his professional pursuits, Prasenjit finds inspiration in engaging in various creative activities, including writing poetry.

Read full bio >
Fact-checked by Naman Khanna

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

Naman Khanna picture

Naman KhannaBachelor of Arts specializing in English Literature

An English literature graduate from Delhi University, Naman's broad interests include mathematics, science, and social science. With his knowledge and expertise in multiple subjects, he is an asset to our fact-checking team. Naman is set to pursue his postgraduate degree in English literature soon.

Read full bio >