Hi Andy,

Welcome to the porch.  Lots of fun to be had, lots of knowledge available,
and plenty of friendship, providing you stay on topic.  Otherwise, lots of
spittoon polishing.  Yup, I've polished my share of the brass.  (grin)

You asked:

(snippage, per FAQ)
> Topic number two:  Stanley #53? (I think it's a #53, I meant to bring the
#
> to work but forgot) spokeshave. The thing works
> just wonderfully and I was wondering if they're rare or something because
> I've never seen another one.

Not particularly rare, but not too common in my experience.  And you're
right, they work just great.  There is also the #54 which has straight
handles.

Hope that helps, at least a little.
Bruce Z.