Topps Vault
 

I just picked up another proof for Dale Murphy’s 1980 Topps card.
Anyone know if there are others? How many were typical for one card?

I'll second your question - I picked up some 1978 proofs a few years ago, and there seem to be a dizzying array available - in addition to the ones shown here, there are blank backs, slick proofs and others.

It would be great if someone out there who knows the manufacturing process Topps used could explain all of these.

Topps used so many "proofs" it's a wonder they got any actual cards out the door.....;)

Proofs are an area that can be a puzzle, especially some of the ones they did.
The place I was at barely did any proofing at all. Usually one sepia tone print from the mask to get approval. The tiny job they did for me after I left there was no proof at all. Just finished product.

Topps Proofs
 

I was one of the largest volume purchasers of original Topps proofs at the 1989 guernseys auction. To help answer the question: 1) for the regular issue cards there are all color combinations available for most. The proof sets I have range from 7 to 11 different examples of any individual card. These are the possible combinations.
1. Yellow
2. Magenta
3. Cyan
4. Black
5. Full color no Black
6. Full Color
7. Yellow/Magenta
8. Yellow/Cyan
9. Magenta/Black
10. Magenta/Cyan
11. Magenta/Cyan/Black

If you want to see examples go to this link on Ebay in my store:
https://www.ebay.com/itm/204402402724
I have hundreds of proofs in the store as well. Jeff W

Thanks
 

Wow. Thanks Jeff.
Were there just as many “film positives” like the one on top right in pic above?