Rare Vintage 1973 Arie Ofir 25 Years of Israel MCM Sterling Silver Plate in Box

Description

ABSOLUTELY BEAUTIFUL, VINTAGE 1973,
STERLING SILVER 925,
MID CENTURY MODERN COMMEMORATIVE PLATE
CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY
TO THE STATE OF ISRAEL,
BY NOTED AND LISTED ISRAELI ARTIST AND SILVERSMITH,
ARIE OFIR
PLATE IS STILL SEALED IN THE ORIGINAL PLASTIC WRAP,
COMES IN THE ORIGINAL PRESENTATION BOX,
AND HAS THE ORIGINAL 1973 PURCHASING RECEIPT
PLATE MEASURES 10" WIDE x 9-1/2" TALL,
TOTAL WEIGHT OF 507.8 GRAMS OR 16.325 TROY OUNCES
As noted above, this plate is still sealed in the original plastic wrapping and has sat inside the presentation box since purchased new.  There are no tears or rips in the plastic with no signs of any scratches or dents.  The plate has started to develop a very pleasing patina and toning over the Sterling surface due to aging, much like that of a collector silver coin.
The plate has a very simplistic modernist design to it with 25 bold and large in a raised relief, with various symbols and Hebrew text of Israel inside, also reading ISRAEL in the center, and the date 1948-1973 at the bottom.
The box is of paper lined wood construction, with a lightweight plastic base and fabric lined interior and measures 11" x 11" x 2-1/2".  It does show light exterior wear from storage and handling over the years, including marks, scratches, a tape mark on the inside, inside lining is loose, and it does have a light musty odor to it.  The original receipt is
dated July 19, 1973, and
shows it was purchased from The Lincoln Mint out of Chicago, IL, which was one of a few premier fine metal collectibles makers and retailers of the era.
It is hallmarked on the back center with various Hebrew text, along with JERUSALEM ARIE OFIR ISRAEL STERLING 291, and it is possible that 291 may represent the serial or production number, as that number is also on the receipt.
This is a stunning piece in person and will not disappoint you!  Would be a wonderful addition to your collection if you have an interest in this listed Modernist artist, MCM design, you're of Israeli descent, or you collect unique Sterling silver!  It will only appreciate in value!
DON'T MISS OUT!  HELP US FIND A NEW HOME FOR IT BEFORE IT GOES TO SCRAP!
Would make a great gift idea for that special someone you know, too!
We kindly request that all questions be asked prior to purchasing.
All of our photos uploaded here to eBay are high resolution images so you can easily zoom in to see important details!
You will be receiving the exact item being offered here in AS-IS condition.