an impression printed (<#pull=pulled>) directly from a <#die> or a <#plate>, usually done before production of <#stamp=stamps> begins. A proof is made to "prove" (approve) the engraving of the die, or the transfer to the plate. Proofs are also pulled to enable engravers to see how their work on a die is progressing. see <#progproof=Progressive Proof>. Proofs have been made as philatelic favors for dignitaries, sometimes years after the stamp was issued. The <#bep=BEP> kept accurate records of all proofs that were made. Proofs tend to have sharper images than the corresponding stamps. <#scott=Scott> numbers for proofs contain a P.