It is an accepted custom that one should give gifts for favors received or expected . Remember, a good bribe to a lower servant is measured in pence, not shillings. On the other hand, a noble' New Year's gift to the Queen is apt to be in the 20-100 range. Try to match the offered gift with the person. Servants generally need cash, but buying them a drink also works.
Nobles usually prefer toys or baubles, like hawks, hounds, horses, or jewelry.
Books make good gifts, while game or wine for their table is usually appreciated. It isn't unreasonable to directly suggest a gift that is desired, or ask the person his wants or needs. An Afterword Finally, no one can be expected to know the price of every item. Rather, one should try to use good judgement in guessing at prices for things. The man who claims to spend 2 in a night's drinking would be thought a drunkard and a fool, but one who claims 2s.