Roman Numeral Converter

Convert between Roman numerals and decimal numbers. Free online Roman numeral converter.

The Roman Numeral Converter transforms numbers between Roman numerals and decimal (Arabic) numerals. Enter a Roman numeral like MCMXCIV or a decimal number like 1994 to get the conversion. Essential for reading dates on buildings, understanding movie credits, and working with classic numbering systems.

Common use cases

  • Reading historical dates
  • Movie and event numbering
  • Clock face interpretation
  • Outline and list numbering
  • Legal document references

How to use

  1. Enter a Roman numeral OR decimal number
  2. Click convert for the equivalent
  3. View the conversion breakdown
  4. Learn the Roman numeral symbols
  5. Handle numbers up to 3999

FAQ

What are the Roman numeral symbols?

I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, M=1000. Subtractive: IV=4, IX=9, XL=40, XC=90, CD=400, CM=900.

Why is 4 written as IV not IIII?

Subtractive notation: a smaller value before a larger means subtract. IV = 5-1 = 4.

What's the largest Roman numeral?

Standard notation goes to 3999 (MMMCMXCIX). Larger numbers historically used overlines or other methods.

Is there a zero in Roman numerals?

No, Roman numerals have no symbol for zero. They developed before zero was widely used.