A stamp cut into two parts (diagonally, vertically or horizontally, each part paying postage to the amount of half the face value of the complete stamp.  Numerous cases are known in which this practice has been authorised to overcome a temporary shortage of certain denominations; authorised bisects are of any value; they should be collected preferably on complete cover to prove their authenticity, or at least on piece with a tied postmark.
 
 
 

- R. J. Sutton 6th edition revised by K. W. Anthony
The Stamp Collector's Encyclopaedia

Published 1966

Posted March 25, 2000