There is a long established tradition in Russia of selling goods bought abroad for resale here, and of selling babushka's heirlooms to stay afloat. The latter trend has become more pronounced because of shifting economic tides and emigration, which forces families to sell off antiques as they are not allowed to export them. Thus, there are many Commission Shops (second-hand stores), called Komissionnyy magazin which take new and used (old) goods on consignment including clothes, footwear, furniture, refrigerators, carpets, electronics, automobiles, etc. These shops are worth a visit because you may find old silver, jewelry, or antiques. They charge the seller up to 25% commission. Some commission shops also have commercial departments with new goods.

Specialized commission shops may also be found under related categories: ART GALLERIES , FURS, ANTIQUES , JEWELRY and PAWN SHOPS.