Cincinnati-based buyer and pawn shop specializing in precious metals, rare coins, jewelry, diamonds, and firearms with 50+ years of experience across 2 locations.
Editorially reviewed by Harvey Brooks
American Trading Company is an established precious metals and collectibles buyer based in Cincinnati, Ohio, with over 50 years of industry experience. The company operates two physical locations on W. Galbraith Road and Harrison Avenue, serving the Greater Cincinnati area as a full-service trade shop.
The company offers a comprehensive range of buying, selling, trading, and pawning services. They purchase and sell scrap gold, silver, and platinum jewelry; rare coins (U.S., foreign, and ancient); diamonds and watches; guns and ammunition; and bullion. They advertise wholesale pricing on inventory, meaning customers can buy items at reduced prices. The business has recently expanded its pawn lending services, offering cash loans against collateral in addition to outright purchases.
American Trading Company differentiates itself through its longevity and multi-service model. Rather than specializing in a single category like coins or guns, they operate as a generalist precious metals and collectibles dealer. They offer free verbal quotes in-store and have partnered with Davidson's to provide online gun purchasing with in-store pickup options. Their messaging emphasizes willingness to evaluate items customers believe may have no value.
While the company appears legitimate and established, potential customers should note that pawn and precious metals businesses are inherently subjective in valuation. The "wholesale prices" advertised when buying from customers may mean significantly lower offers than retail resale value. The recent addition of pawn lending services suggests they are expanding beyond pure buying/selling into short-term cash lending, which carries different consumer protections and risks.
Yes. American Trading Company is a registered company headquartered in 3209 W Galbraith Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45239. They hold a NR rating with the Better Business Bureau.
CreditDoc Diagnosis
American Trading Company is best for Cincinnati-area residents who need quick cash against collateral or want to sell precious metals, coins, firearms, or jewelry locally. The main caveat is that as a pawn and precious metals buyer, they will offer wholesale rates significantly below what items might sell for at retail, and pawn loans carry interest and fees that should be carefully reviewed before borrowing.
Cincinnati-based buyer and pawn shop specializing in gold, jewelry, rare coins, and firearms with 50+ years of experience across two locations.
Best for: Cincinnati residents with physical gold, jewelry, or watches needing immediate cash, Collectors of rare coins or numismatic items seeking expert evaluation and sale
FirstCash is the leading international operator of 3,300+ pawn stores across 29 U.S. states, the UK, and Latin America, offering pawn loans secured by personal property and retail merchandise sales.
Best for: Consumers with immediate emergency cash needs and valuable items (jewelry, electronics, instruments) willing to pledge collateral, Individuals without credit history or with poor credit who cannot access traditional bank loans
FirstCash is the leading international pawn operator with 3,300+ stores across the U.S., Latin America, and UK, offering pawn loans secured by personal property and retail merchandise sales.
Best for: Consumers with poor or no credit history who need immediate cash and cannot qualify for traditional loans, People with valuable items they're willing to pledge temporarily and can afford to repay within short loan terms
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