Free Tool

Roman Numeral Converter

Convert numbers to Roman numerals or Roman numerals to numbers instantly, with a full step-by-step breakdown.

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Enter a number above to see its Roman numeral.

About Roman Numeral Converter

About This Roman Numeral Converter

This free tool converts any integer between 1 and 3999 to its Roman numeral equivalent, or parses a Roman numeral string back into a number — instantly, with no page reload. Every result includes a full step-by-step breakdown so you can see exactly how each conversion works.

Roman Numeral Reference Table

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

How Subtractive Notation Works

Roman numerals use subtractive notation for six specific combinations: IV (4), IX (9), XL (40), XC (90), CD (400), and CM (900). When a smaller value appears before a larger one, it is subtracted rather than added — so IV means 5 − 1 = 4, not 1 + 5 = 6.

For example, 1994 converts to MCMXCIV: M (1000) + CM (900) + XC (90) + IV (4). The breakdown display in this tool shows each component clearly.

Got questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the valid range for Roman numeral conversion?

Standard Roman numerals cover integers from 1 to 3999. Numbers outside this range cannot be represented using classical notation.

Is Roman numeral input case sensitive?

No. The converter accepts both uppercase and lowercase Roman numerals. XIV, xiv, and Xiv are all treated the same.

What are the basic Roman numeral values?

I = 1, V = 5, X = 10, L = 50, C = 100, D = 500, M = 1000. Subtractive combinations like IV (4), IX (9), XL (40), XC (90), CD (400), and CM (900) are also standard.

Why is there no zero in Roman numerals?

Roman numerals were developed before the concept of zero was widely adopted in Europe. Zero was introduced to Western mathematics much later through Arabic numerals.

What does the breakdown in the results mean?

The breakdown shows how the conversion is calculated step by step — for example, 1994 = MCM (900) + XC (90) + IV (4) = MCMXCIV. For Roman → Number, it shows each symbol or pair and its value.

Can I convert the year I was born?

Yes, as long as the year is between 1 and 3999. Enter the year in the Number → Roman tab to see it written in Roman numerals.