Yes, there are different types of proofs.
Some printers would do different types or more types even during the same era. The place I worked did almost no proofing at all. Topps did a wide array of sorts of proofs. That may have more to do with how many approvals were needed.
The first ones for T206 would probably be proofs of the art for an individual card. One for each color, plus the combinations or a few combinations. That would make sure the master was what they wanted, and that everything lined up well. There are proof books for a lot of cigar box labels that show notes on changes they wanted, Unfortunately I don't think the ones made for T206 Survived.
The next step would be printing transfers from the masters. They would need several of each color, as the transfers were used to lay out the stone. The proofing marks at the midpoints of each side were used during layout to assure stuff was in the right spot and not tilted. After layout they were erased. Most cards show remnants of them, usually very small, sometimes more noticeable. It also varies by the exact position on the plate, so it's very possible to have two of the same card that are very slightly different.
Before that erasing, they would have printed full sheet proofs to make sure the stones were all properly laid out, and didn't have any huge errors. If they were ok, the marks were erased and the stones would be sent to the pressroom for production to begin.
Any made for daily press adjustment wouldn't have the large layout marks we see on the proofs. I believe most of the scraps out there are from the initial setting up of the press.
Steve B
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