The chocolate coins are included in an education pack explaining the workings of the single European currency, produced by the University of Warwick as a resource for schools.

This replacement of the traditional chocolate currencies - sterling or bank of toyland - comes in the run up to the launch of the new European currency at the start of the new year.

"Chocolate coins are often still a stocking filler at Christmas, but few kids would normally expect to get a bag of chocolate euros," said a spokesman for the university.

The education pack is intended to give young people a greater understanding of the timetable for the introduction of a single currency and its economic implications.

"Our packs provide a balanced presentation of arguments about economic and monetary union. By giving young people the basic facts, it aims to make them aware of the advantages and disadvantages," the spokesman said.