Rick Harrison is a well-known entrepreneur and reality TV personality, best recognized for his involvement in the pawn industry. As a co-owner of the famous Gold and Silver Pawn Shop located in Las Vegas, Nevada, Harrison gained widespread attention through his role on the popular History Channel series Pawn Stars. His success in both business and television has contributed to his substantial wealth, with his net worth reaching approximately $9 million in 2023.
Who Is Rick Harrison?
Rick Harrison, born on March 22, 1965, in Lexington, North Carolina, has built a notable career that combines business expertise with a knack for rare antiques and collectibles. While many know him for his appearance on Pawn Stars, Harrison’s success extends beyond television. As a co-owner of the Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, his deep knowledge of the pawnbroking industry has earned him recognition as both an entrepreneur and a trusted figure in the field.
The Gold and Silver Pawn Shop, the focal point of Pawn Stars, provided viewers with an exclusive look into the world of pawnbroking, contributing to the show’s popularity. Alongside his business ventures, Harrison is a published author and has served as an executive producer for Pawn Stars, further broadening his influence in both the business and entertainment sectors.
Rick Harrison Wiki
| Attribute | Information |
| Full Name | Richard Kevin Harrison |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Lexington, North Carolina, USA |
| Occupation | Businessman, Reality TV Star |
| Notable for | Co-founder of Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, Star of Pawn Stars |
| Active Years | 1989 – Present |
| Spouse(s) | Kim Harrison (1982-1985), Tracy Harrison (1986-2011), Deanna Burditt (2013-2020), Amanda Palmer (2021-Present) |
| Children | 3 (Corey, Adam, Jake) |
| Notable Achievements | New York Times Bestselling Author, Executive Producer of Pawn Stars |
Early Life Of Rick Harrison
Rick Harrison, born Richard Kevin Harrison on March 22, 1965, in Lexington, North Carolina, grew up in a family with a strong military background. His father, Richard Benjamin Harrison Jr., served in the U.S. Navy, and Rick was the third of four children. His early life was marked by the tragic loss of his older sister, Sherry, who passed away at the age of six. He also has two brothers, Joseph and Chris.
At just two years old, Rick’s family relocated to San Diego due to his father’s military assignment. During his childhood, Rick faced the challenge of epileptic seizures, which began when he was eight. These health struggles led to long periods of bed rest, fostering a deep passion for reading. Although Rick attended Taft Middle School in San Diego, he dropped out during his sophomore year to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities. At the age of 16, he was making $2,000 a week selling counterfeit Gucci bags. In 1981, the Harrison family moved to Las Vegas, Nevada, where Rick’s entrepreneurial journey would truly begin.
Rick Harrison Career Journey
After relocating to Las Vegas, Rick Harrison’s father opened a small secondhand business named Gold & Silver Coin Shop in 1981. The shop was located in a modest 300-square-foot space on Las Vegas Boulevard. Alongside his work at the shop, Rick took on a second job, working nights repossessing cars. In 1986, the family moved to a larger location downtown, but by 1988, they lost their lease and had to find another spot on Las Vegas Boulevard for the business.
During this period, Rick and his father envisioned expanding their coin shop into a full-fledged pawnshop. However, they were met with a challenge due to a 1955 law that restricted the issuance of pawnshop licenses based on the city’s population. Determined to make their vision a reality, Rick regularly tracked the city’s growth and made weekly calls to a local statistician. His perseverance paid off in 1989, when the city reached the required population threshold and the Harrisons were granted the license to open a pawnshop. They opened Gold & Silver Pawn Shop near the Las Vegas Strip, which quickly gained recognition.
By 2005, the pawnshop had expanded significantly, offering around $3 million in loans annually and earning roughly $700,000 in interest. By 2006, the shop had developed a reputation for housing unique sports memorabilia and became a go-to spot for gamblers looking for fast cash.
Rick Harrison Personal Life And Marital History
Rick Harrison’s personal life has had its fair share of significant moments, alongside his professional achievements. His journey into fatherhood began at the age of 17 when he and his girlfriend, Kim, experienced a difficult loss through a miscarriage. Despite the heartbreak, the couple married and had two children together—Corey, born in 1983, and Adam, born two years later. Unfortunately, their marriage ended shortly after Adam’s birth.
Following his separation from Kim, Rick met Tracy through a blind double date. Their relationship quickly grew, and after six months of dating, they chose to live together. They married soon after and raised Corey and Adam together, but their marriage eventually ended in divorce.
Rick’s third marriage was to Deanna Burditt, whom he proposed to in 2012. The couple tied the knot in a lovely ceremony in Laguna Beach, California, in 2013. Their marriage lasted seven years before they parted ways in 2020.
In 2021, Rick married Amanda Palmer, with whom he shares memorable moments and travel experiences. Their relationship appears strong, with the couple often posting about their adventures together and expressing their happiness online.
Rick Political Aspirations
Rick Harrison has also explored interests beyond his business career, including politics. In 2022, he briefly entertained the idea of running for governor of Nevada, although he ultimately decided not to pursue the opportunity. Looking ahead, Harrison has hinted at the possibility of entering the political arena again, this time with a potential run for the U.S. Senate in 2024, showcasing his continued engagement with political matters.
Rick Harrison Age
As of 2024, Rick Harrison is 59 years old and shows no signs of slowing down. Despite being in his late 50s, he remains highly energetic and driven, both in his personal life and his professional endeavors. His passion for his work and entrepreneurial spirit give him a youthful vibe that belies his age.
Rick’s early years were shaped by the challenge of living with epilepsy, which often kept him indoors. However, this period sparked his deep interest in reading and learning, laying the foundation for his future expertise in history and antiques.
At 59, Rick continues to lead his pawnshop business, engage with audiences through his show, and take on new ventures. For him, age is simply a number, and his continued success and activity reflect his unwavering enthusiasm and determination.
Rick Harrison Luxurious Home
Rick Harrison’s residence in the upscale Red Rock Country Club area showcases both his success and refined taste. Originally built in 2001, he acquired the home in 2016 for $3.3 million, later investing an additional $600,000 in renovations to craft a space that truly reflects his lifestyle and preferences.
Here’s a closer look at the property:
- Purchase Price: $3.3 million
- Renovations: $600,000
- Estimated Current Value: $4 million
What sets this home apart? The formal sitting room boasts $45,000 worth of exquisite granite flooring. The home theater is a standout feature with a gigantic 150-inch screen and comfortable seating for 12. For added luxury, an elevator and integrated central sound system ensure seamless audio throughout the house.
The outdoor area is equally remarkable, offering a resort-like experience with a lagoon-style pool, spa, and a lazy river. The property also offers direct access to a golf course, making it a haven for golf enthusiasts.
Though Rick initially listed the house for $3.99 million in 2019, he decided to retain ownership. This remarkable mansion, with its exceptional amenities and prime location, continues to be the ideal retreat for him.
Rick Harrison Media Appearances And Business Impact
Rick Harrison’s media presence, especially through his role in the popular reality show Pawn Stars, has played a pivotal role in his financial prosperity. The widespread appeal of the series significantly boosted the visibility of both Rick and his business, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop. This increased exposure directly impacted the shop’s revenue by attracting a larger customer base and enhancing brand recognition.
The television show helped carve out a distinct identity for the pawn shop, differentiating it from other competitors in the industry. Its engaging format captivated a broad audience, sparking interest in rare collectibles and valuable items, which in turn increased foot traffic to the store. This dynamic combination of entertainment and commerce helped establish the shop as a top destination for unique finds.
Beyond simply drawing in customers, the constant visibility afforded by Pawn Stars has also fostered a loyal clientele. The trust developed through the show, coupled with the reputation for authenticity, has encouraged repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth referrals, essential ingredients for sustained success.
Furthermore, the expanded media profile opened up additional revenue streams for Harrison, including potential brand collaborations, licensing arrangements, and merchandise opportunities. These outlets have further strengthened his financial standing, proving the far-reaching impact of media appearances in fostering business growth.
In summary, Rick Harrison’s visibility on Pawn Stars has been instrumental in propelling his business success. The show not only raised brand awareness and attracted a devoted customer base but also created opportunities for financial growth in multiple areas. This highlights the significant role that media exposure plays in shaping the future of retail businesses and entrepreneurs.
Real Estate Overview
In 2019, Rick Harrison listed his extravagant home in the prestigious Red Rock Country Club area of Summerlin, Las Vegas, for $3.99 million. This 8,845-square-foot property, built in 2001, was acquired by Rick in 2016 for $3.3 million. He then invested $600,000 into upgrading and remodeling the home to include high-end features and personalized touches that reflect his luxurious lifestyle.
Some of the standout features of the estate include:
- Granite Flooring: The formal living area is accented with acid-washed granite planks, carefully crafted to resemble hardwood, a feature valued at $45,000.
- Home Theater: Designed for up to 12 guests, the theater room is equipped with a 150-inch screen and custom draperies for a premium cinematic experience.
- Wine Cellar: The property includes an expansive wine cellar with storage capacity for over 1,000 bottles, perfect for wine enthusiasts.
- Elevator & Sound System: The residence is equipped with an elevator for easy access between levels and a centralized sound system, allowing music to be played throughout the home via smartphone.
The home’s location offers breathtaking views, with the front facing the scenic Red Rock Canyon and Spring Mountains. The backyard offers panoramic views of the iconic Las Vegas Strip, as well as the nearby Arroyo Golf Club. The outdoor space is designed for both relaxation and entertainment, complete with a lagoon-style pool, elevated spa, waterfall feature, and a lazy river that winds through the pool area.
Rick selected this neighborhood for its combination of tranquility, luxury, and proximity to his children’s school. As his family has grown and his children have moved on, Rick no longer requires the expansive space. Despite listing the home for sale, he continues to appreciate the private, high-end living that this unique property offers.
Conclusion
Rick Harrison’s remarkable journey from a local pawn shop owner to a media-savvy entrepreneur has played a pivotal role in his financial growth and success. Through Pawn Stars, Harrison’s business has gained significant visibility, attracting a dedicated customer base and generating valuable opportunities for brand partnerships and expansion. His real estate investments and luxury lifestyle further exemplify the rewards of his hard work and strategic decisions. Despite his ups and downs in personal life, his business acumen and media presence have ensured his continued success. Ultimately, Rick Harrison’s story is a testament to how media exposure, strategic investments, and a passion for history and antiques can transform a small business into a globally recognized brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Rick Harrison’s net worth?
Rick Harrison’s net worth is estimated to be around $9 million, with his wealth stemming from his business ventures, media appearances, and real estate investments.
2. How did Rick Harrison make his fortune?
Rick Harrison’s fortune comes from his successful pawn shop, Gold & Silver Pawn Shop, which gained global recognition through the hit reality TV show Pawn Stars. Additionally, his real estate investments and business ventures have contributed to his wealth.
3. What is Rick Harrison’s current wife’s name?
Rick Harrison’s current wife is Amanda Palmer. The couple married in 2021.
4. How much did Rick Harrison’s house cost?
Rick Harrison purchased his Red Rock Country Club home for $3.3 million in 2016, with an additional $600,000 spent on renovations. The current estimated value of the home is around $4 million.
5. Has Rick Harrison ever run for office?
While Rick Harrison has expressed interest in politics, including considering a run for governor of Nevada in 2022, he has not officially entered political office. He is reportedly contemplating a run for the U.S. Senate in 2024.
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