Free Roman Numeral Converter - Numbers to Roman

Convert numbers to Roman numerals and Roman numerals back to numbers. Includes validation and reference chart.

What Is Roman Numeral Converter?

Roman numerals use combinations of seven Latin letters — I (1), V (5), X (10), L (50), C (100), D (500) and M (1000) — to represent numbers. They follow specific rules: symbols are generally written largest to smallest from left to right, and a smaller symbol before a larger one indicates subtraction (IV = 4, IX = 9, XL = 40). The standard range covers 1 to 3,999 (I to MMMCMXCIX).

Roman numerals remain widely used today: clock faces, movie sequels (Star Wars Episode IV), Super Bowl numbering (Super Bowl LVIII), copyright dates on buildings and films, book chapter numbering and formal outlines all use Roman numerals. This converter handles both directions — numbers to Roman and Roman to numbers.

How to Use This Tool

  1. Enter a number (1–3,999) to convert to Roman numerals.
  2. Or enter Roman numerals (e.g. XLII) to convert to a number.
  3. The conversion is instant and bidirectional.
  4. View the reference chart for the seven basic Roman numeral symbols.
  5. Copy the result for use in documents or designs.

Tips & Best Practices

  • The subtractive principle only applies to specific pairs: IV (4), IX (9), XL (40), XC (90), CD (400), CM (900).
  • Roman numerals have no symbol for zero — the concept of zero was developed later in other numeral systems.
  • Lowercase Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, iv) are conventionally used for page numbers in book prefaces.
  • Standard Roman numerals cannot represent numbers above 3,999 without extending the system.

Common Use Cases

  • Converting years to Roman numerals for formal documents, certificates or film credits.
  • Decoding Roman numerals found on buildings, monuments and inscriptions.
  • Formatting chapter numbers, outline sections or page numbers in academic documents.
  • Creating designs or typography that use Roman numeral styling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What numbers are supported?

Standard Roman numerals cover 1 to 3,999 (I to MMMCMXCIX).