The number represents the number of trades that the person has been involved in where the trader registered feedback (positive, negative or neutral) about the trade.
At this time you do not have access to the trading areas but access will be granted with time and participation.
As a new member you can check out (and participate) in the Newbie Sampler Trade (
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=46087)