Victor Lustig, a notorious con artist, is famous for selling the Eiffel Tower (twice!).
Lustig, widely considered one of the most skilled con men of all time, successfully tricked scrap metal dealers into believing he was a government official authorized to sell the Eiffel Tower for scrap. His audacious scheme highlights his persuasive abilities and understanding of human greed. He targeted individuals who would be enticed by the prospect of acquiring such a valuable landmark, playing on their desire for wealth and prestige. The initial "sale" was so successful that he attempted it a second time but was unsuccessful.
Lustig's elaborate con underscores his cunning and ability to exploit vulnerabilities within a system. Besides the Eiffel Tower scam, he was also known for other fraudulent schemes like the "Rumanian Box," a device he claimed could duplicate money. His life was a tapestry of deception, making him a fascinating figure in the history of crime.
