NOS brake shoes certainly contain some asbestos, but I don't think that's a reason not to use them. Just wear a mask when you remove them, as the dust will have some asbestos.
As far as durability, hard to say. I'd be more inclined to run a softer 'organic' shoe, so as not to wear the drum as much. Old drums are not getting more common, and once they're worn too far.....
Metallics and old asbestos are generally more abrasive than newer materials.
But I'm sure the old shoes would work well enough.
Cheers!
George
