Chris, your posting of the PSA 8 Dan-Dee Mantle is much appreciated for the discussion. Obviously, the card has the multitude of die-cut tabs. Answers at least the question of whether the New York players had tabs around the card.
I guess I am curious and will follow my own research thought concerning whether other players can be found without the tabs. I am pretty certain I have seen some without tabs, though it is a moot point, really. It's possible Milprint cut them both ways, and the value of either is the same.
However, I am most curious as to why you refer to the PSA 8 as a PROOF? From what characteristics of the card are you basing your assessment? Please, I am not being critical; just want to know where you're coming from. Thanks.
--Brian Powell