A double-layer electrode coil for a high intensity discharge (HID) lamp and a method of making the electrode coil are provided. A more stable layer of coils is made by front winding, instead of back winding, the layers of wire. The second layer of wire is entirely within a helical groove on the exterior surface of the first layer of wire. This arrangement is particularly stable and permits more rapid insertion of the electrode shank after removal of the mandrel.