Ep 38. Greatest Gambles

In season 11 episode 38 of Pawn Stars, titled "Greatest Gambles," viewers are taken back in time to explore some of the wildest bets and gambles in history. From the ancient Greeks who would bet on anything and everything to the wild west saloons where poker games would turn deadly, this episode delves into the world of high-stakes gambling and the risks people were willing to take for a chance at fortune.

The episode starts off with Rick considering whether to take a chance on a rare, antique roulette table that dates back to the 1800s. This particular table has a fascinating history, having once been owned by a notorious gambler who made and lost fortunes on it. As Rick negotiates with the seller, he must decide if the potential profits outweigh the risks of investing in such a unique piece.

After the roulette table, the focus turns to some of the greatest gambles in history, starting with the story of the Spanish Armada. In one of the most audacious military campaigns ever attempted, King Philip II of Spain sent a fleet of ships to invade England in 1588. Despite overwhelming odds, the English managed to defeat the Spanish Armada, changing the course of history and solidifying England's status as a global superpower. The Pawn Stars team examines a rare artifact from the battle, which offers a glimpse into the incredible story of this epic gamble.

Next, the show turns to the wild west, where gambling was a way of life for many. The team examines a set of antique playing cards that were once used in a high-stakes poker game in a saloon in Deadwood, South Dakota. As they examine the cards, they learn about the dramatic showdown that took place and the incredible risks that the players involved were willing to take.

Moving on, the show explores the world of horse racing and the incredible gamble behind the famed racehorse Secretariat. Viewers learn about the incredible story of how this horse became one of the greatest racehorses of all time, and how his owner took an incredible risk by betting on him in the 1973 Belmont Stakes. The team examines a rare piece of memorabilia from the race, which offers a glimpse into this incredible story.

Finally, the episode ends on a more personal note, as the Pawn Stars team considers some of the greatest gambles they themselves have taken. Rick, Corey, and Chumlee open up about some of the risks they've taken both in business and in their personal lives, offering a unique perspective on the theme of the episode.

Overall, "Greatest Gambles" offers a fascinating look into some of the most incredible and audacious gambles in history, as well as how the concept of gambling has permeated through different cultures and time periods. With the Pawn Stars team offering their own insights and reflections, viewers will come away with a greater appreciation of the risks and rewards that come with taking a gamble.