I want to mention 2 younger players I haven't seen mentioned yet, who while not as historical as most on this list (yet), I think they inspired and reminded, and helped many new players, feel that it wasn't a lost cause, gaining huge NW to compete with the big boys n gals, who had used exploits, different stock market, and the like, to acquire insane amounts of wealth.
Lustdragon69, Who many people will think of, when they need a RW weapon. Buying, selling, valuing. Not to mention his daily Xanax giveaway, and wonderful forum tone. I'd highly recommend everyone read
Lusty's HoF NW journey it's an absolute masterclass in finding a niche, digging in, and paving the way for many more people to think "maybe I should try some RW flipping"
The second player I want to mention is
Matzkops, who to me, symbolises the power of activity, networking, and getting those with more money but less time, to trust you. Rocketing up his personal networth, by making use of his stock market talents, at a (relatively) young account age, proving to those that were moaning about the stock market changes, that it is still possible to make $$$
On the topic of pure money, perhaps
Hell_Fire deserves a mention. Correct me if I'm wrong, but Hell_Fire is the richest player in Torn, when you're looking at purely personal networth. No faction families vaults, RAD's, stock fund managing for factions, etc.
If he ever decides to start a 4SE a day diet, everyone should look out for that username rocketing up the stats HoF