What is "the premium" and this "noise" you speak of? (I'm sorry, I don't even know the lingo of PMs)
I'd like to buy 10 or 20 of them, to start off, strictly for if the shtf and someone has something I need and they'll only trade in pm.
I like the Pamp Suisse, just because they're pretty, and if the s never htf, well then, I'll have something pretty to look at!
There are fake bullion and numismatic coins out there.
If you invest in Pamp Suisse Bars, they are serial numbered and tracked in their database. The people out there know this, so there is a premium because of its desirability.
When the time comes to sell, fewer people will doubt their authenticity, so they will be more liquid (easily bought and sold).
As the price of silver goes to triple digits, you will feel the $20 premium less and less. However, you are right, a $20 premium may not be as transferable to the buyer if your holding timeframe is short.
I like them, but I find them to be too pricey.
Start with raw American Silver Eagles. They carry a $3-4 premium. Buy only from reputable sources, as they are counterfeited. Typically the counterfeits are too light, or have a date that doesn't coincide with the production years.
They are legal tender, and probably the most liquid form of Silver Bullion in the US. There are other advantages with American Silver Eagles as their declaration value is $1 per coin as far as customs are concerned.
American Silver Eagles are considered money in the state of Utah. Five states have since filed to give the Silver Eagle similar status.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Silver_Eagle