Business Details
America's Oldest Pawn Shop in Lynchburg, VA
Established in 1890, L. Oppleman has served Lynchburg, VA, as America's Oldest Pawn Shop for over 133 years. Our legacy began with Jacob and Lena Oppleman, whose family stewardship continued through Aaron Somers, David Somers, and now Ryan Somers, who has led daily operations since 2002. We specialize in pawn loans, retail sales of firearms, gold, guitars, electronics, jewelry, and tools, while maintaining a commitment to community service and integrity. Our fourth-generation ownership ensures continuity in providing accessible financial services and diverse merchandise. We differentiate ourselves through unique programs like Oppleman Dollars, which reward customers with gift cards upon item redemption, and tax services led by Jeff Somers.Our family atmosphere fosters loyalty among multi-generational customers, who rely on us for immediate financial solutions and quality goods. Operating six days weekly, we balance traditional pawn services with modern conveniences like online shopping and instrument rentals. Our expertise in gemology, demonstrated by Ryan Somers' GIA certification, enhances trust in jewelry transactions. As both a local institution and a national historical reference, we've been recognized by industry experts and media for our enduring relevance. Through economic cycles, we adapt by meeting community needs, whether through retail opportunities or short-term loans for unbanked populations.
Services
Pawn loans
Firearms sales
Gold trading
Guitar retail
Electronics sales
Jewelry appraisal
Tax services
Instrument rentals
Online store
Gift cards
Highlights and features
- We offer 133 years of continuous pawnbroking expertise in Lynchburg, VA
- Our family-owned operation maintains fourth-generation personal service standards
- We provide GIA-certified gemology expertise for jewelry transactions
- Our Oppleman Dollars program rewards customers with 5% interest rebates as store credit
- We combine traditional pawn services with modern conveniences like online shopping
Services
Pawn loans
We provide short-term secured loans based on item value. Customers receive immediate cash while retaining redemption rights. Our transparent terms accommodate diverse financial needs, from emergency expenses to temporary cash flow gaps.
Firearms sales
Our licensed firearms inventory includes new and used handguns, rifles, and shotguns. We follow all federal regulations while offering competitive pricing and expert guidance for responsible gun ownership and collection.
Gold trading
We buy and sell gold jewelry, coins, and bullion at market-driven prices. Our staff provides honest evaluations with no hidden fees, helping customers convert unwanted gold items into immediate cash.
Tax services
Professional tax filing assistance with certified experts. We offer accurate return preparation and immediate $50 gift card rewards for completed services, combining financial services with retail incentives.
Instrument rentals
Affordable rental options for student and professional musical instruments. Our program supports local music education while providing quality instruments for temporary or long-term use.
People
Ryan Somers
Owner
Fourth-generation leader since 2002, GIA-certified gemologist, and Lynchburg native. Oversees daily operations while maintaining family legacy through community engagement and business innovation.
Jeff Somers
Tax Services Director
Tax service specialist with 20+ years experience. Provides certified tax preparation while integrating retail incentives through our $50 service reward program for customers.
Questions
What services does L. Oppleman Pawn Shop offer?
We provide pawn loans, retail sales of firearms, gold, guitars, electronics, and jewelry, plus tax services and instrument rentals.
Is L. Oppleman Pawn Shop family-owned?
Yes, we've maintained fourth-generation family ownership since 1890, with Ryan Somers currently leading operations.
Do you buy gold and precious metals?
Yes, we purchase gold jewelry, coins, and bullion at competitive market rates with transparent evaluations.
Are your pawn loan terms flexible?
We offer customizable loan terms based on item value, with clear redemption options and interest structures.
Do you have online shopping options?
Yes, our website features an online store with shipping and local pickup options for select merchandise.
What makes you America's Oldest Pawn Shop?
Continuous operation since 1890 under the same name, with only four owners in 133 years, recognized by industry experts and local media.
Reviews (5)
Merce W.
Jan 27, 2022
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The staff is so rude, you would think with 6 people on the floor there would be at least one nice or helpful person. you walk in and it's like a black cloud of hate lol. i always leave there feeling gross. very weird vibes, especially if you're a woman
Lyle S.
Dec 15, 2018
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I mostly never have issues going in here, and I was a regular customer until about a week ago. The issue was that the young man that works in the music area tried to take pictures of me from a hiding spot behind the counter. Yes this sounds insane and I understand how it can. I was trying out guitars, because I was going to buy one for my son. I looked around because I knew they closed soon. That's when I saw a phone with the flash snapping pictures and heard the noise of the pictures. I just wanted to no why.he then told me to "take my stealing ass on home" I'm thinking he thought I was stealing, second of all this is NOT the way to handle stealing or a robbery. SAD.
Mr. Star Wars Guy M.
Feb 28, 2018
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One of my favorite pawn shops in all of Virginia. I particularly enjoy their new firearm salesman and firearms department. They are very informative, helpful, and polite when doing business with. I will continue to do business with L Opperman.
Lynchburg R.
Jan 19, 2014
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Terrible customer service on the buying end. I have never "pawned" anything so I cannot speak on that end. But, these guys are retail or better on everything I have looked at there from ATV's, Guns, Tools, Computers, etc etc. They are very proud of the junk they have and will not budge a penny. Act as if they are doing you a favor trying to screw you. RUDE AND ARROGANT STAFF!
Brittney G.
Aug 07, 2013
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Great array of services: renting equipment, reselling or purchasing used merchandise, and getting a loan through certain personal items as a form of collateral. My husband and I frequent this place. The staff are friendly and easy going, and they have a great, decent quality selection of items.
