Heater coil is a special case where you don't want the wire to melt because of high temperature but still have a high resistance to provide high heat. Here are two characteristics -
High melting point - so that it can perfectly withstand highest temperature and with the increase in temperature, it might will not melt down the coil or heating element.
High specific resistance - this requires small length of the wires to provide same quantity of heat to the appliance.
