The Royal Nevada Casino Hotel, operating from 1955 to 1958, stands as one of Las Vegas's shortest-lived casino resorts, marked by misfortune and poor timing.

Initially announced in 1953 by Miami hotelier Frank Fishman as the Sunrise Hotel, the $2.5 million project was rebranded as the Royal Nevada. Located between the Last Frontier and the future Stardust site, the resort was designed by architect Paul Revere Williams, featuring distinctive royal crown insignias.

Troubles began early when Fishman's gaming license was denied in February 1955 after investigators discovered his new partners' mob connections. New owners took over, and the casino finally opened on April 19, 1955, with opera singer Helen Traubel headlining.

The casino struggled against stronger competition from the simultaneously opening Dunes and Riviera. With only 10 table games, 54 slots, and C-list entertainment, its main attraction was the Dancing Waters fountain show.

The property closed three times: first on New Year's Day 1956, again in December 1957 after cheating allegations, and finally on January 30, 1958. The Bureau of Internal Revenue closed the hotel in March 1958 for unpaid taxes.

The Stardust later acquired the property, converting it into a convention center. Boyd Gaming demolished the building in 2006, and today, the site is part of Resorts World Las Vegas.

The Royal Nevada's brief existence exemplifies the volatile nature of early Las Vegas casino development, marked by financial struggles, ownership changes, and fierce competition in a rapidly evolving market.

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