I have a 99 Civic HX with 74k miles.  I have replaced the front brakes a  
couple times (watch out for Raybestos QuietStop!) but the rear drums have  
never been touched.

Recently I started noticing brake squeal in the rear when backing down my  
steep driveway in the morning.  I didn't notice under normal driving and  
braking, so I ignored it.  After a few more weeks or so, I started to hear  
more of an intermittent scraping sound when braking in reverse.  At this  
point I became concerned that the pads had worn down & were damaging the  
drum.

After a few days or so I bought some new brake shoes and popped open the  
drums.  Not only did everything look fine, but the old shoes looked like  
they were only 50% worn; there was really no apparent use in replacing  
them.  The inner drum surfaces were smooth, as were the shoes.

The brakes seem to be operating just fine; I use the e-brake every day.  
In forward motion the ebrake works effectively; the front discs squeal a  
little when cold (standard Raybestos organic pads), otherwise I don't  
notice anything.  Does anyone have an idea what might cause these strange  
sounds?  Again I only notice it in reverse, and if I pulse the brakes a  
few times it will start to go away.

thanks,
Cooper