: Check the current market price of silver before you go so you know if you're getting a fair offer.

Yes, pawn shops commonly buy silverware, but they typically only purchase items made of or other high-purity silver alloys. Most pawn shops do not buy silver-plated flatware because it has almost no "melt value" (the value of the raw metal if melted down). How to Tell if Your Silverware is Valuable

Do you have a of silverware or a set of hallmarks you'd like help identifying?

: Examine high-contact areas like the tips of spoons. If you see a different-colored metal (like copper or brass) peeking through, it is silver-plated.