Unusual for Lionel?

Not really there is 3 different ones that they made all 654 the aluminum you have, (and they made it with nickle and some with brass handrails the ) also orange the 3rd one is grey I have 2 of those but in fair condition at best and the grey is a little more desirable I guess as it carries a little higher value in the pocket guide. 

with that said your car looks great. You could check with www.ttender.com or Olsens trains to see about getting the parts you need to complete it. 

I am glad you brought this topic up, Michael.  For some reason my 654 doesn't have railing stanchions (if that is their name) at all.

You would do better by calling Jeff and explain what you need. 585-229-2050

They are fairly common Michael, they usually show up described as "mixed trim".  Click here for one for sale on eBay at the moment:

According to Greenberg's 2001 edition of Lionel Trains Vol II 0 & 00 Gauges, brass numbers plates were only produced in 1933 and 1934. However, The journals were copper, nickel journals appeared in 1934. Maybe Lionel was cleaning out their inventory when your grandfather got his train.

Ron M

Thanks for the information guys!