Hmmm I'd have to see the car to get a good feel for it. But that serial number isn't just on the edge between '52 and '53 to really warrant the factory using '52 parts. What's '52 about the interior? The difference between those model years is quite far. There are a number of possibilities. Someone could have changed the tag, it could be an incorrect restoration, or maybe the factory really left those '52 surprises for you.

Maybe it was a custom order! Because someone thought the '53 changes were ugly.

Car, according to the serial number, was built in Feb. 1953 (221171-229669).
Two things come to mind - one is somebody changed the number tag, tho that's doubtful. More than likely somebody along the way restored it or fixed it up using a 1952 parts car.
Check the engine number - should be the same as the serial number.

Hudsonly
Alex Burr
Memphis, TN