Cuba 1870 Bisected 20 Céntimos de Escudo Allegory Stamp on Cover

Cuba · 1870 · 10 céntimos (used)

A bisected 20 céntimos de escudo allegory stamp from Cuba, issued in 1870, used as a 10 céntimos denomination. This stamp is affixed to two-thirds of an envelope, demonstrating its postal usage. The design features a classical allegory, common for the period.

Bisected stamps were emergency issues used when there was a shortage of stamps of a particular denomination, allowing a higher value stamp to be cut and used for a lower value. This Cuban example on cover to Puerto Príncipe provides valuable insight into postal practices and stamp shortages during the Spanish colonial era.