Cut License plate, Illegality/do-ability? Options

[snagmor]

So Ive seen some cars, both on the road and on the interwebs, with regular license plats that have either been cut or folded so that all you can see is the numbers.
They look super classy, but I cannot find a whole lot of information on it. I was wondering if anybody else has ever done this themselves or heard of anybody who has?

I got pulled over today for not having my front mounted so I need to get it on there asap, but If this is legal then I'd definitly be doing this pretty soon.
I quickly grabbed these two pictures but I was more thinking of going for a look closer to the first one.
If anybody has any input on their illegality please let me know!

[Box]

Or live in a state that only requires the rear tag. Eh, I don't see why there would be a problem with it if the rear tag isn't modified. Easiest way to find out is to call your local DMV or police department. That or see if they have tags like they do overseas, where its some kind of adhesive banner. A lot of cars don't have spots for tags on the front, hence the aforementioned. Either way, it's something you need to check on with your local authority.