I picked up a Bailey No. 4 1/2 plane at a garage sale for $4 a few days ago. Based on what I read on tooltrip.com about this plane, I believe it was make between 1902 and 1907 (no patent date on the lateral lever, "Bailey" cast in the toe, with the number designation cast just behind the knob, the only patent dates are Mar-25-02 and Aug-19-02 cast in the bed just behind the frog, and the frog design as outlined for this vintage plane). I don't know much about planes, so I didn't notice that the lever on top of the lever cap was missing. Otherwise, the plane seems to be in pretty good shape, with only minor surface rust. The japaning (I think that is what is called) is farily intact inside the body of the plane, and the wood parts look good to me. I guess my initial questions are: what is a plane in this condition worth, and is there a source for vintage replacement parts for this plane? I'm guessing I will keep and learn to use it, if I can find a replacement lever cap for it.
Chuck