[jeffv96masters]

Many of the 1990's thick coins, medallions etc cannot be slabbed due to weight or thickness issues
BGS errs on the side of caution if it thinks it will break the internal sleeves

Buyers are the ones who choose return shipping ( I'm presuming you chose 2 day Fedex) the $54 return charged sounds normal. They normally do not refund the grading fees- you get charged no matter what.

I always check before subbing the more esoteric or unique items like coins, medallions, stamps, thicker , special issues, one offs for shows etc.

Jeff