I did have some sand in mine. I always ask for a line from whichever book is being signed. I don't really like personalized books.
Was your copy printed in Great Britain? ( if look at the back of the last page it should say.) I only ask because of his video re the collectibility of POD books and how having it printed a certain date could make it more collectible then others. Mine has no date as well. Just thought it was kinda funny.