Roman Numeral Converter interactive tool
What Is Roman Numeral Converter?
A Roman numeral converter is a specialized tool that translates our modern decimal numbers (Arabic numerals) into the ancient Roman numeral system, and vice versa.
How Do Roman Numerals Work?
Instead of using position to determine value (like the tens or hundreds place in our system), Roman numerals use a combination of seven Latin letters:
- I = 1
- V = 5
- X = 10
- L = 50
- C = 100
- D = 500
- M = 1000
Letters are combined to form other numbers. When a smaller value appears before a larger one, it is subtracted (e.g., IV = 4). When it appears after, it is added (e.g., VI = 6).
Where Are They Used Today?
While no longer used for mathematics, Roman numerals are still widely used in modern life for styling and tradition. You will see them on clock faces, in book chapters, on movie sequels, in the naming of monarchs, and notably, for the Super Bowl.
How To Use the Roman Numeral Converter
- To convert a number, enter a standard integer (1-3999) in the 'Number' field.
- To convert a Roman numeral, enter valid Roman letters (I, V, X, L, C, D, M) in the 'Roman Numeral' field.
- Review the converted Roman numeral or standard integer.
Numbers to Roman numerals and back
Use this Roman numeral converter to translate standard integers from 1 through 3999 into Roman notation or convert a valid Roman numeral back to a number. The result is useful for dates, numbering, and practice with Roman numeral rules.
Need the formula or convention behind this result? Read the calculator methods and assumptions.