COLLECTIBLE!  I found a set of three Victorian Ben Franklin Maxim's pieces of glazed pearlware child's nursery plates/mug. They are listed separately.

This is one of the plates, It is a black transferware center with a black outer rim. The textured surface of the outside rim is a series of animals - so adorable! The picture on the inside of the plate mirror the sayings with men sawing a tree, and a worker making monuments.

The writing on the plate is as follows:
Dr. Franklin's Maxim's
By diligence and perseverance the mouse eats the cable in two
Diligence is the mother of good-luck and God gives all things to industry.

The plate is unmarked and free of chips and cracks. There are a few small stains on the front of the plate that appears to be underneath the surface finish, so very likely there from production onwards.

This would display so well in a nursery, playroom or farmhouse kitchen. I think it would be nice in a vignette celebrating Early American themes as well. Unique and rare, for sure! These were historically pieces made as a common way to teach moral lessons to children, often depicting themes like industry and thrift. These plates were popular throughout the 19th century, with some being made as late as the early 20th century. I believe these are early version based on the style and condition.

Dimensions:
5" diameter x 3/4" tall

Note there are three different pieces available that can be seen in the last pictures. They are listed separately.