Skip to content

Number Systems · free · no sign-up

Roman Numeral Converter

Convert Arabic numbers to Roman numerals and back. Type either form and get the other instantly.

How it works Report a problem

Imperial Converter

Digital translation of Classical Roman digits

About the Roman Numeral Converter

Convert Arabic numbers to Roman numerals and back. Type either form and get the other instantly.

How to use the Roman Numeral Converter

  1. Enter a number such as 2024 or a Roman numeral such as MMXXIV.
  2. Press Convert to see the result.

Formula and method

Roman numerals combine seven symbols. A smaller symbol placed before a larger one is subtracted (IV = 4, IX = 9, XL = 40, XC = 90, CD = 400, CM = 900); otherwise values are added.

Roman numeral symbols
Symbol Value
I 1
V 5
X 10
L 50
C 100
D 500
M 1,000

Worked example

2024 = 2000 (MM) + 20 (XX) + 4 (IV) = MMXXIV.

Years. 2024 = MM + XX + IV = MMXXIV. 1994 = M + CM + XC + IV = MCMXCIV.

When to use the Roman Numeral Converter

  • Reading dates on monuments, clocks and film credits.
  • Writing numbered lists and outlines in Roman numerals.
  • Checking homework.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Repeating a symbol more than three times. 4 is IV, not IIII (except on some clock faces).
  • Using an invalid subtraction such as IC for 99. The right form is XCIX.

Tips

  • Standard Roman numerals cover 1 to 3,999.
  • A symbol is not repeated more than three times in a row.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a Roman numeral for zero?
No. The Romans had no symbol for zero.
What are the basic Roman numerals?
I = 1, V = 5, X = 10, L = 50, C = 100, D = 500, M = 1,000.
What is the largest number in standard Roman numerals?
3,999 (MMMCMXCIX), because the standard system has no symbol for 5,000.