True Crime Collector Skulduggery: R.L. Wilson and the "Trade of the Century"

Published on January 5, 2021
Duration: 27:48

This video delves into the complex fraud case involving R.L. Wilson, a prominent Colt scholar, and the 'Trade of the Century.' It details how Wilson manipulated the Colt Collection at the Connecticut State Library for personal gain, highlighting the importance of provenance and ethical practices in high-value firearms transactions. The narrative is presented with an investigative tone, drawing on historical documents and expert analysis.

Quick Summary

The 'Trade of the Century' was a major fraud case involving R.L. Wilson, a Colt scholar, who manipulated the Colt Collection at the Connecticut State Library. He orchestrated a trade of 290 firearms for only 8 items and Sam Colt's cane, deceptively appraising the deal. The collection included stolen and counterfeit firearms, highlighting issues of provenance and ethical collecting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to R.L. Wilson Scandal
  2. 02:28The Connecticut State Library Colt Collection
  3. 03:34R.L. Wilson's Role as a Broker
  4. 07:26The 'Fractal Fraud' with Sully
  5. 13:31The 'Trade of the Century'
  6. 15:41Stolen Guns and Fakes
  7. 18:48Investigation and Aftermath

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the 'Trade of the Century' involving R.L. Wilson?

The 'Trade of the Century' was a fraudulent scheme orchestrated by Colt scholar R.L. Wilson, where he manipulated the Colt Collection at the Connecticut State Library. He convinced the library to trade 290 valuable firearms for just 8 items and Sam Colt's cane, vastly undervaluing the collection he was entrusted with.

How did R.L. Wilson gain trust at the Connecticut State Library?

In the pre-internet era, R.L. Wilson offered his services for free to the Connecticut State Library, acting as a broker and appraiser. This allowed him to build trust and gain significant influence over the management and transactions of the valuable Colt firearms collection.

What types of firearms were involved in the 'Trade of the Century' fraud?

The fraudulent trade involved 290 firearms from the Colt Collection. Notably, some of these guns had been previously stolen from Colt, and the trade also included a pair of 'Von Sückel' Dragoons later identified as fakes, which Wilson used to launder problematic items into the museum's collection.

What was the outcome of the investigation into R.L. Wilson's fraud?

A collector's discovery in 1985 led to a police investigation that uncovered clear evidence of fraud. However, the statute of limitations had expired for the 'Trade of the Century' itself. Wilson was later incarcerated for other unrelated fraudulent activities.

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