The Chinese Fingernail Guard That Scored Big Bucks On Pawn Stars

After closing the deal, Chumlee took his new treasure into the office to show off to Rick and Corey. They were not impressed, but they didn't understand. Rick asked him where it was from.

"It's from China," Chum answered defensively. "It's for ancient empresses in China."

"How can you tell that?" Rick asked.

"Cuz I know it," Chum said. "I've seen 'em before, in a book."

"Now I know you're lying," Rick said.

"Well, the internet, same thing," Chum said.

Rick was unconvinced of its authenticity, and told Chumlee to call in Doc Phineas, the eccentric antiques expert the shop often consults. Phineas came in and confirmed what Chumlee told Rick, that it was from China and worn by ladies of the court who didn't do any labor. Phineas said that the fact that the fingernail guard was made of silver was special, as silver was almost more valuable than gold at the time this would have been made, which made him think it could have belonged to a very high-ranking court official, maybe even the Empress herself.

Phineas said that in the right auction, this fingernail guard could go for $750.

Chumlee was ecstatic. "That's $500 profit!" he gloated. "Just admit I know what I'm doing," he asked Rick. The thing about Chumlee is that when he does something good, he can't just take the satisfaction of a job well done: he has to make a big deal about it. And you know what? That's why he's entertaining.