Roman Numeral Converter

About the Roman Numeral Converter

Our free Roman numeral converter allows instant conversion between Roman numerals and Arabic numbers (1-3999). Perfect for students learning about historical number systems, doing history assignments, or anyone needing to work with Roman numerals.

How to Use the Converter

1. Choose conversion direction - Arabic to Roman or Roman to Arabic
2. Enter the number - Type the value you want to convert
3. Click Convert - Get instant results
4. Copy result - Use the copy button for easy copying

Key Features

• Bidirectional Conversion - Convert both ways instantly
• Range 1-3999 - Covers all standard Roman numerals
• Symbol Reference - See all Roman numeral symbols
• Conversion Rules - Learn how the system works
• Copy to Clipboard - Easy result copying
• Validation - Checks for valid inputs

Roman Numeral Symbols

• I = 1
• V = 5
• X = 10
• L = 50
• C = 100
• D = 500
• M = 1000

Subtractive Notation

When a smaller numeral appears before a larger one, subtract it:

• IV = 4 (5 - 1)
• IX = 9 (10 - 1)
• XL = 40 (50 - 10)
• XC = 90 (100 - 10)
• CD = 400 (500 - 100)
• CM = 900 (1000 - 100)

Conversion Examples

• 2024 = MMXXIV
• 1999 = MCMXCIX
• 444 = CDXLIV
• 1984 = MCMLXXXIV
• 3749 = MMMDCCXLIX

Common Use Cases

• History homework and projects
• Reading Roman numeral dates
• Understanding clock faces (XII for 12)
• Book chapter numbering
• Copyright years on movies
• Outline numbering systems

Tips for Reading Roman Numerals

• Start from the left and add values
• If a smaller symbol is before a larger one, subtract it
• Never use more than three of the same symbol in a row
• Know the subtractive combinations (IV, IX, XL, XC, CD, CM)
• Remember that there's no zero in Roman numerals

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the largest Roman numeral?

Using standard notation, the largest is 3999 (MMMCMXCIX). Larger numbers used special symbols or overlines in ancient Rome.

Why is there no zero?

The concept of zero as a number didn't exist in ancient Rome. Roman numerals were used for counting and record-keeping, not mathematical calculations.

How do you write 1000000 in Roman numerals?

Ancient Romans used a vinculum (overline) over M to represent 1,000,000. This tool focuses on standard numerals 1-3999.