First time gold IRA buyer - should I hold off because of premiums?

• •Okay, so I'm pretty new to this whole Gold IRA thing, just started looking into it seriously a few months ago.
• •Like many, I'm trying to diversify a bit beyond just stocks and bonds, especially with all the economic uncertainty swirling around.
• •I've finally built up a small chunk to start with – I’m looking to transfer about $25,000 from an old 403(b) into a Gold IRA.

Okay, so I'm pretty new to this whole Gold IRA thing, just started looking into it seriously a few months ago. Like many, I'm trying to diversify a bit beyond just stocks and bonds, especially with all the economic uncertainty swirling around. I’m a teacher here in Columbus, and honestly, the thought of having some physical gold as part of my retirement feels a lot more secure than relying solely on the market.

I've finally built up a small chunk to start with – I’m looking to transfer about $25,000 from an old 403(b) into a Gold IRA. I’ve done some research, read a ton of posts here, and compared a few companies. The thing that’s really getting me, though, are the premiums on gold coins right now. It seems like everything is so much higher than spot price. I know premiums are always a thing, but it feels particularly elevated lately. I was planning on getting some American Gold Eagles, but man, those prices are making me hesitate.

Should I just bite the bullet and buy now, figuring that these premiums are just the cost of doing business in a gold IRA, or should I hold off for a bit? I’m thinking maybe if the economy cools down or something, premiums might come down. But then again, if gold itself goes up, I'll be kicking myself for waiting. Has anyone else felt this way when starting their Gold IRA with a smaller portfolio (under $50k)? What did you decide to do?

I’m really trying to make a smart first move here, and I don't want to make a rookie mistake. Any advice from you seasoned investors would be super appreciated!