Around 1984 Tonga introduced progressive proof tabs into the printing process of its stamps. Instead of having blank gutters, Tonga shows 5 different progressive proof tabs in each sheet of stamps, with each proof tab showing how the stamp looked at a different stage of the printing process.

For instance, proof tab 1 usually shows how the stamp looked when the first color yellow was done. The proof tab shows the same picture/design as the issued stamps, but is only yellow, and is also missing the words and values.

Proof tab 2 is usually blue, the second color used in the printing process.

Proof tab 1 2 shows what the stamp looked like when both yellow and blue were mixed together, giving the result of a greenish/yellow proof.

Proof tab 3 is usually red which was the third color done.

Proof tab 1 2 3 always shows the stamp in its finished colors after the red is mixed with the blue and yellow – except black is not yet done. This progressive proof looks like the issued stamps but is missing black still.

Many collectors and exhibitors are finding that a strip with the proof tab in the middle is a “different” way to show an item in their collection or exhibit. Very few people thought to collect these strips in this format.

Payment can be made in two ways:-

(1) By cash (US dollars or euros) posted through the mail. Cash travels safely through the mail when placed between several sheets of paper or inside an old card.

(2) Or payment can be made through PayPal in US dollars or in euros.

PLEASE NOTE, I cannot accept checks or money orders due to very high bank charges here, and I cannot accept credit cards direct. I can only accept credit cards by payment through PayPal.

Buyer to pay airmail postage (which includes firm and secure packaging) on this item of 2 euros. Less per item if same buyer takes more than one item.