Chapter on Pledging (Rahn)

Safwan ibn Yahya narrated from Ishaq ibn Ammar, who said: "I asked Abu Ibrahim (Imam Musa ibn Jafar Al-Kadhim عليه السلام) about a man who has a pledged item (rahn) in his possession but does not know to whom it belongs. Imam عليه السلام said: 'I do not recommend that he sell it until its owner comes.' I said: 'He does not know to whom it belongs.' Imam عليه السلام replied: 'Does it have any excess value or deficiency?' I said: 'What if it has excess or deficiency, what should he do?' Imam عليه السلام said: 'If it has a deficiency, it is easier; he may sell it and be rewarded for what remains. However, if it has excess value, that is more difficult; he should sell it and hold the surplus until its owner comes.' "