It seems like all states have a collection of commemorative plates available for a variety causes. Michigan must of had one of the earliest issues of a commemorative plate. The plate I have of my '35 (as a year of manufacture plate), is a "veteran's plate." They were issued during years 1935-1939. To qualify for the plate you have to be a veteran of the Civil War , Spanish- American War or World War I (then NOT now!).
Tom