Ben Johns Gold Perseus: The Rarest JOOLA Paddle Ever Made

Only 100 were made, each tied to one of the greatest runs in pickleball history. Here’s the story of the Gold Perseus, what it’s worth today and the playable paddles it inspired.

Gold Perseus at a glance

	Detail
Brand	JOOLA
Model family	Perseus (Ben Johns signature line)
Occasion	Ben Johns’ 100th PPA Tour gold medal
Production	Limited to 100 paddles
Finish	Gold-dipped / gold finish
Reported original price	Around $999
Reported resale value	Around $8,000, with listings up to ~$10,000
Status	Collector item

Who is Ben Johns?

Ben Johns is widely regarded as the most successful player in pickleball history. Since emerging on the professional circuit, he has dominated singles, men’s doubles and mixed doubles at the highest level, collecting titles at a pace few players in any sport have matched. His influence extends beyond results: his style of play, from aggressive hand battles to innovative shot selection, has shaped how the modern game is played.

Johns has been closely associated with JOOLA for years. The Hyperion and then the Perseus became his signature paddles, and each new Perseus generation has carried his name and influence. That long partnership is why a commemorative gold Perseus carries so much meaning for fans and collectors.

The story behind the Gold Perseus

Reaching 100 PPA Tour gold medals is a milestone that underlines just how dominant Johns has been. To mark the achievement, JOOLA produced a limited run of just 100 gold-finished Perseus paddles, one for each gold medal.

Reports describe the paddles as having a gold-dipped finish and an autograph from Johns, turning them into instant collector pieces. With such a small production run, most were quickly absorbed by collectors and dedicated fans, and the secondary market took over.

How much is the Gold Perseus worth?

There is no fixed price for the Gold Perseus, because it is only sold on the resale market. Reported figures give a sense of its value:

Stage	Reported price
Original retail	Around $999
Typical resale	Around $8,000
Highest listings	Up to around $10,000

Several factors influence an individual paddle’s value:

• Condition: unused, unplayed paddles are worth significantly more.
• Authenticity: proof of authenticity, original packaging and documentation increase value.
• Autograph condition: a clean, clear signature adds value.
• Numbering or certificates: any identifying details that confirm it is one of the 100 help.
• Market timing: values can rise around major milestones or big tournaments.

Is the Gold Perseus the most expensive pickleball paddle in the world?

As a single paddle, the Gold Perseus is generally considered the most expensive. Luxury sets cost more: the Louis Vuitton pickleball set was reported at $100,000 and the Versace set at $9,000. But those are sets with multiple paddles, balls and accessories, built around luxury branding rather than a sporting achievement. See the full ranking in Most Expensive Pickleball Paddle Ever Sold

Can you still play with a Gold Perseus?

Technically, yes: it is based on a real Perseus paddle. In practice, almost nobody who owns one takes it to the court. Using it would reduce its collector value dramatically, and current performance paddles like the JOOLA Pro V offer newer technology anyway. Think of the Gold Perseus as a trophy rather than equipment.

Why limited-edition paddles become valuable

Collectible value usually comes from a combination of scarcity, story and status. The Gold Perseus has all three.

• Scarcity: with only 100 made, supply is tiny compared with the number of fans who would like one.
• Story: it marks a specific, historic achievement by the sport’s most famous player.
• Status: owning one signals deep connection to the sport and its history.

Similar dynamics drive the value of limited sneakers, signed sports memorabilia and special-edition watches. As pickleball grows, its own collectibles market is forming, and the Gold Perseus is one of its first true grails.

How the Gold Perseus compares with other collectibles

Item	Type	Reported price
Louis Vuitton pickleball set	Luxury set	$100,000
Versace Barocco de la Mer set	Luxury set	$9,000
JOOLA Ben Johns Gold Perseus	Single collector paddle	~$8,000 resale
Tesla Plaid paddle by Selkirk	Limited collaboration	$350
JOOLA Pro V	Flagship performance paddle	Most expensive mainstream on Amazon

What makes it different from a regular Perseus?

A regular Perseus is a performance tool designed to be played hard and eventually replaced. The Gold Perseus is designed to be kept. Its gold finish, autograph and limited numbering transform a familiar paddle into a piece of memorabilia. In terms of playing characteristics, it is based on the Perseus design of its time; the newer JOOLA Pro V has since moved the technology forward.

How to buy a Gold Perseus safely

Because so few exist and values are high, the Gold Perseus is an obvious target for misleading listings. Protect yourself:

1. Demand proof of authenticity. Ask for original packaging, documentation and any certificates.
2. Verify the autograph where possible, and compare with known examples.
3. Check the seller’s history on the resale platform, including past sales of high-value items.
4. Use buyer protection. Pay through platforms that offer protection, never by untraceable methods.
5. Be wary of “gold” Perseus listings at normal paddle prices. These are usually standard colorways or custom-painted paddles, not the limited edition.
6. Ask for detailed photos of the face, edge, handle and signature in good light.

If a deal looks too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

Is the Gold Perseus a good investment?

Collectibles can rise or fall in value, and pickleball collectibles are a young market. The Gold Perseus has several qualities that support its value: an extremely limited run, a connection to a historic milestone and an association with the sport’s biggest star. But demand depends on pickleball’s continued growth and on collectors’ interest. Treat it as a passion purchase first and an investment second.

Other collectible and limited-edition paddles

The Gold Perseus is part of a growing world of limited and special-edition paddles:

• Luxury designer sets from Louis Vuitton and Versace
• Brand collaborations such as the Tesla Plaid paddle by Selkirk, released in limited quantities at $350
• Signature and special colorways from major brands, often released around big events

See them all in designer and luxury pickleball paddles.

Playable Perseus paddles you can buy today

If you love the Perseus but want a paddle to actually play with, the current and previous flagships are available on Amazon:

Read our JOOLA Pro V review or see every option in the most expensive JOOLA paddles.

The Perseus family through the years

The Perseus line has evolved over several generations, each refining the elongated shape, carbon face and construction. The latest, the Pro V, introduced KineticFrame construction designed to add easy power while keeping touch on soft shots. The Gold Perseus sits outside this performance timeline as a commemorative edition, but it carries the same identity that made the Perseus the defining paddle of Ben Johns’ era.

Where Gold Perseus paddles appear for sale

Gold Perseus paddles occasionally appear on major resale marketplaces and through collector communities. Availability is unpredictable, and many owners have no plans to sell. If you are serious about buying one, set up alerts on reputable resale platforms, connect with pickleball collector groups and be patient. Rushing is how buyers end up with counterfeits.

Displaying and storing a collector paddle

If you own a Gold Perseus or another collectible paddle, store it like any valuable collectible:

• Keep it out of direct sunlight to protect the finish and signature.
• Store it at stable room temperature and humidity.
• Use a display case or a padded case with a soft lining.
• Handle it with clean, dry hands, or gloves, to protect the finish.
• Keep all packaging and documentation together.

Gold Perseus as a gift

For the ultimate pickleball fan, a Gold Perseus would be an unforgettable gift, if you can find an authentic one and are comfortable with the price. For most gift budgets, a current Perseus flagship like the JOOLA Pro V delivers the same connection to Ben Johns’ legacy in a paddle the recipient can actually use. Pair it with a premium bag for a gift that feels special. See our guide to luxury pickleball gifts.

Frequently confused: Gold Perseus vs gold colorways

JOOLA and other brands sometimes release paddles with gold accents or special colorways. These are not the same as the limited 100-piece Gold Perseus. When you see “gold” in a listing title, check for clear evidence that it is the commemorative edition, such as documentation and a matching description, before assuming it is the collector paddle. A gold-colored paddle selling at a normal retail price is almost certainly a standard model.

What the Gold Perseus says about pickleball

Not long ago, the idea of a pickleball paddle selling for thousands of dollars would have seemed unlikely. The Gold Perseus shows how far the sport has come: it now has superstar players, a professional tour, passionate fans and a collectibles market. Luxury brands have taken notice too, with Louis Vuitton and Versace releasing pickleball sets. As the sport continues to grow, expect more limited editions, collaborations and commemorative pieces.

Quick facts recap

• Limited to 100 paddles
• Made to celebrate Ben Johns’ 100th PPA Tour gold medal
• Gold finish, reportedly autographed
• Reported original price around $999
• Reported resale around $8,000, listings up to about $10,000
• Considered the most expensive single pickleball paddle

Should you collect pickleball paddles?

If you love the sport and its history, collecting can be a rewarding hobby. Start with items that mean something to you, such as a paddle from your favorite player or a limited release from a memorable event. Keep documentation, store items carefully and buy only from trusted sources.

Most of all, enjoy the stories behind each piece; that is what gives collectibles their real value.

The bottom line

The JOOLA Ben Johns Gold Perseus is the most valuable single paddle in pickleball: a 100-piece tribute to the sport’s greatest player, reportedly selling for thousands on the resale market. It is a trophy, not a tool. If you want to play with the Perseus legacy, the JOOLA Pro V is the modern flagship. See all of the most expensive paddles you can actually buy in our ranking of the 10 most expensive pickleball paddles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the Gold Perseus paddle worth?

Collectors have reportedly paid around $8,000, with some listings up to about $10,000.

How many Gold Perseus paddles were made?

Only 100 Gold Perseus paddles were produced.

Why was the Gold Perseus made?

It celebrated Ben Johns winning his 100th PPA Tour gold medal.

What was the original price of the Gold Perseus?

It reportedly retailed for around $999.

Is the Gold Perseus the most expensive pickleball paddle?

As a single paddle, it is generally considered the most expensive. Luxury sets like Louis Vuitton’s cost more.