"Do pawn shops carry stolen instruments?" As my old dad used to say,"Does a one legged duck swim round in circles?"

Well the short answer is Yes, a lot of them do unfortunately.

I don't know where you live but in Australia, they are supposed to keep a register of ALL goods bought and the origin is SUPPOSED to be authenticated.

When you go to the local pawn shop and if you find something you like, ask them to show you the Authentication they ascertained when buying the goods. Also ask them for some kind of written guarantee that basically states that if the goods are found to be stolen, you will be held blameles and will be entitled to a full cash refund.

If they refuse, then go buy your instrument from a music shop.

cheers and good hunting

Bugsy