Hey all,
I will soon have the opportunity to visit Beijing for 6 weeks. As an avid coin collector, bullion stacker, and entrepreneur I'm hoping to take the opportunity to make some additions to my personal collection as well as make some money by importing some Chinese coins/currency for others to enjoy. I've got about a month before I leave, so I'm hoping to make some plans now to maximize my profits/enjoyment on the trip

The largest obstacle I'll have to overcome is ensuring that the products I purchase are genuine. This site I'm sure will be very helpful with that. I'll also only purchase from recommended / larger, more legitimate looking dealers, no shady street stands. I've seen a few Beijing dealers listed already, and have been told you can also buy in most major banks. Does anyone have any more insight or tips on where to buy for the lowest premium, while still assuring quality?
Second, I won't have a super huge budget for the trip - to avoid any huge losses (in case I end up buying all bogus items) I'd prefer not to put down more than $1,000 total. From what I've heard, buying bullion in China has comparatively little mark-up over spot, so that would be where I can make money - that premium. Therefor, I think my best bet would be 1/2oz Silver Pandas, then 1oz Silver, and maybe 1/20oz Gold Pandas. Any idea what sort of premiums I might find on these coins over spot from say Caishikou (菜市口百货商店), China Merchants Banks, ICBC, or Dazhongsi (this location only sells gold, from what I've heard)?
Does anyone know the customs/import law on bringing Chinese gold/silver into the US? Also, if I'm being completely naive, please tell me so I can stop wasting my time :P
PS: 我现在是一个中文学生,所以我可以用中文买硬币。I hope that also gives me an advantage in where I can shop - not being limited to strictly tourist traps.
I thank you for any help/advice/criticism you might be able to give.
-Solace