Here’s a cool piece from days of auctions past: a 1974 Topps Deckle Edge Proofs complete set of 72. MastroNet offered it in their 2nd Classic Collector Auctions in February 2005.
Individual proof samples are pricey these days; here are a few recent graded sales from eBay:
- Johnny Bench – $506.95 in December 2024
- Steve Carlton – $240 in December 2024
- Jim Palmer – $900 in November 2024
The set itself was a test issue with limited distribution in the Massachusetts area. These proofs are known with white or gray backs, and they’re slightly larger than the final deckled cards that were released three per pack for five cents with gum or in two-card packs with no gum.
