Abstract: The microstructure and properties of annealed copper wires in four types of electric cables were investigated by OM, SEM, mechanical and electrical tests. The result shows that the microstructure consists of three zones as fine grains, coarse grains and fibrous grains in order from the surface to the core by continuous annealing. Three zones are different from others in shape and distribution. The shape and size of grains exert apparent influence on the mechanical and electrical properties. The surface coating increases the electric resistance while has no obvious influence on the grain distribution.