Abstract: A guide wire tip including a core wire having a proximal end and a distal end. The core wire includes a tapered portion proximate the distal end. The tapered portion has a transverse, cross-sectional area which generally decreases distally. The tip is disposed at the distal end of the core wire. The tip has a transverse, cross-sectional area larger than the smallest transverse cross-sectional area of the tapered portion of the core wire. A coil extends over the core wire to the tip. The coil extends over at least a portion of the tapered portion. A radiopaque sheath is disposed proximate the tip and between the core wire and the coil.