Roman Numeral Converter

Roman Numeral Converter

Convert between Roman numerals and Arabic numbers

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Quick Presets
Common conversions for quick testing
Input & Settings
Choose a direction, enter a value, and convert in one step.
How it works: Converts between Arabic numbers (1-3999) and Roman numerals. Uses subtractive notation (IV=4, IX=9, XL=40, XC=90, CD=400, CM=900).
Roman Numeral Reference

Basic Symbols

I = 1
V = 5
X = 10
L = 50

Advanced Symbols

C = 100
D = 500
M = 1000

Subtractive Notation

IV = 4
IX = 9
XL = 40
XC = 90

More Examples

CD = 400
CM = 900
MMM = 3000

What is Roman Numeral Converter?

The Roman Numeral Converter transforms numbers between standard Arabic numerals (1, 2, 3) and Roman numerals (I, V, X, L, C, D, M). You enter a number and get the Roman numeral equivalent, or enter a Roman numeral and get the number. It supports values from 1 to 3,999. All processing happens in the browser.

How does Roman Numeral Converter work?

This tool maps numbers to Roman numeral notation using the standard subtractive principle (IV for 4, IX for 9, etc.). It also parses Roman numerals back to numbers by recognizing the patterns. The algorithm processes from largest to smallest numeral value.

Key Features

  • Numbers to Roman numerals and back
  • Supports 1 to 3,999
  • Bidirectional conversion
  • Input validation with error messages
  • Copy result to clipboard
  • Real-time conversion as you type
  • Runs in the browser with no uploads
  • Quick example presets

Common Use Cases

When and why you might need this tool
  • Reading Roman numerals on monuments

    Enter MCMXCIX to find it means 1999.

  • Numbering chapters or outlines

    Convert chapter numbers to Roman numerals for a formal document outline.

  • Clock and watch reading

    Convert numbers to Roman numerals to understand analog clock faces.

  • Super Bowl or event numbering

    Convert Super Bowl LVIII to 58.

How to Use This Tool

Step-by-step guide to get the best results
1

Enter a number or Roman numeral

Type in either field. The tool converts in both directions.

2

View the result

The conversion appears instantly.

3

Copy the result

Copy the converted value.

Pro Tips

  • 1

    Roman numerals: I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, M=1000.

  • 2

    Subtractive notation: IV=4, IX=9, XL=40, XC=90, CD=400, CM=900.

  • 3

    The maximum standard Roman numeral is MMMCMXCIX (3,999).

  • 4

    Roman numerals do not have a zero.

Frequently Asked Questions

What range of numbers is supported?

The converter supports numbers from 1 to 3,999, which is the standard range for Roman numerals.

How does subtractive notation work?

When a smaller numeral appears before a larger one, it is subtracted. IV is 5-1=4. IX is 10-1=9. XL is 50-10=40.

Is my data sent to a server?

No. All conversion happens in your browser. Nothing is transmitted.

Can I convert Roman numerals to numbers?

Yes. Enter a Roman numeral in the Roman field and the tool shows the number.

Why is the maximum 3,999?

Standard Roman numerals cannot represent numbers above 3,999 without using additional notation like overlines for multiplication by 1,000.