The main benefit of an internal gear hub is that it requires less maintenance in adverse weather conditions.

The first bike (Public C7) I see as expensive considering it has really low end components. They work fine, so there is nothing wrong with that, but if that is the case, then why does it cost $550? To pay $125 on top of that for shipping seems crazy expensive (to me).

The second bike (Linus) appears to be the better value, especially considering shipping. It also includes a rear rack, which is good. The leather saddle is not a Brooks, but it's probably nicer then what's included in that first bike. The price, $800, is still pretty high, but internal gear hubs are expensive so that's a little bit more understandable. Did you notice the weight is over 50lbs? It is not super important for a commuter to be lightweight, but keep in mind this is not a bike you will want to throw on your shoulder and carry up stairs.

Edit: If you're budget conscious, you should be able to get a bike like this for about $250-$300 at your LBS:
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-us/....w/7339/44538/

It doesn't include fenders or a rack, but you can add fenders for $35, and a rack for about $40.