Is the only difference in these two the carrying arm?
Looking at the pics of both, it appears teh gold does not have a vent at teh bottom. I was told the SJ platimun did not which is kind of sill. I want to get the copper colored SJ, but it looks like a gold model with out a vent at teh bottom. Can anyone help me out here?

Smokey Joe (SJ) Silver - vent on the bottom - top does NOT latch down for carrying.

SJ Gold & Platinum - they differ in diameter - Gold is 14", Platinum is 18" - both have a SOLID bottom with a carrying handle that latches the top to the body. They have vents high on the side, but a bottom vent can be added if you are good with tools.

what yer missing is that its made to be carried without worry of dumping hot coals from underneath. good for the beach or tailgating.
if you need a lower vent then do as already mentioned. many have had no issues with the side air vents.