1970s vintage signed John Perry gold plated dolphin sculpture

Retro 1970s vintage, John Perry gold plated dolphin sculpture, signed "Perry" and dated (but we can't make out the date). We've been told that this dolphin is plated with 24 carat gold (but we're not sure. The dolphin measures 7 inches long. There is a scar where this was removed from the base and light wear.