We were wondering what this plate was used for (whether it be for food for a feast, decorative piece, etc) and if the inscription had any importance to it. Here are the photos.
EDIT: Found in junk that was left behind after the house was bought. We are in Northern Illinois.
EDIT 2: Grammar.
This is a an Iranian traditional hand engraved table top or tray found in many Iranian households. They usually rest on a separate wooden x-shaped framework of legs: https://img1.etsystatic.com/054/0/5772278/il_fullxfull.682887411_pi17.jpg
The households finest silverware can be put on display on these trays or they can function as a side table adjacent to a couch.
In rural areas or traditional restaurants the tray is used to serve tea and food.
The trays can have very intricate designs: http://www.where-is-iran.com/Province-Township-Iran/Township-Image/Copper-Engraved-Tray-Esfahan-Iran.jpg
"1447" could be an Islamic date but when converted to Gregorian comes out to 2026 which is incorrect.
You could try and ask this question at /r/whatisthisthing.
"1477" could be a pattern number or the like.
For clarification- Just laying in his backyard? Buried? Where do you live?
How come it is written in English?
It's not a plate, it's tray. You place food or fruits and things on it, or sift through rice on it. Or anything really. Every Iranian family has one, but you never know how you get it.
