As I recall, Tony was building the Stardust. He'd gone to Moe Dalitz and his Cleveland associates more than once to borrow money "one last time"; he'd also sold "stock certificates" that he'd had printed up...though the corporation wasn't registered, and there was nothing backing up the paper. Reports vary...some say the Stardust was some months away from opening, other reports say it was days away from opening, and only needed money for the cage. Tony was indulging in one of his favorite pastimes...craps at the Desert Inn...when he suddenly collapsed and died from a massive heart attack. Or did he? There were unanswered questions...why did it take so long for anyone to call for medical assistance? Why was there no autopsy? Why weren't the contents of his drink glass analyzed? In fact, why did the glass vanish so quickly? The Stardust sat closed and empty for a couple of years, then was completed by Jake "The Barber" Factor, brother of cosmetic king Max Factor...though, I think the Stardust was licensed to Mrs. "The Barber" Factor, as her husband had unsavory contacts and couldn't get a gaming license.

The details could be a little off...it's been awhile since I've read the story, but I think it's pretty close.