Roman Numeral Converter
Enter a number (1–3999) or a Roman numeral and convert instantly.
How to Convert Numbers to Roman Numerals
Roman numerals use seven letters — I, V, X, L, C, D and M — to represent numbers. Letters are added together when arranged from largest to smallest (VIII = 5 + 3 = 8). The system originated in ancient Rome and is still used today on clock faces, in book chapters, on monuments, and for movie sequels and royal titles.
When a smaller letter appears before a larger one, it's subtracted (IV = 5 − 1 = 4, IX = 10 − 1 = 9, XL = 50 − 10 = 40, XC = 100 − 10 = 90, CD = 500 − 100 = 400, CM = 1000 − 100 = 900). A letter cannot repeat more than three times in a row, which is why 4 is IV rather than IIII. Combine these rules and you can express any whole number from 1 to 3999.
Roman Numeral Reference Chart
| Symbol | Value |
|---|---|
| I | 1 |
| V | 5 |
| X | 10 |
| L | 50 |
| C | 100 |
| D | 500 |
| M | 1,000 |
Common Uses of Roman Numerals Today
Roman numerals still appear on clock faces, in book chapters and outline numbering, for movie sequels and copyright dates, on royal and papal titles (Elizabeth II, Benedict XVI), at the Super Bowl, and on monuments, cornerstones and tattoos commemorating important dates. They are also used in chemistry to denote oxidation states, in pharmacology for prescription dosing, and in academic outlines for top-level headings. Their visual weight makes them especially popular for engraving and for any context where a number should feel timeless and ceremonial rather than purely numeric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Roman numeral for 2026?
2026 in Roman numerals is MMXXVI — that's MM (2000) + XX (20) + VI (6).
How do you write 1000 in Roman numerals?
1000 is written as M, a single letter representing one thousand.
What does XL mean in Roman numerals?
XL means 40. It uses subtractive notation: X (10) placed before L (50) means 50 − 10 = 40.
What are Roman numerals used for today?
Roman numerals are commonly used for clock faces, book chapters, movie sequels, royal titles (e.g. Elizabeth II), Super Bowl numbering, and inscriptions on monuments and buildings.
What is the highest Roman numeral?
The largest standard Roman numeral is MMMCMXCIX, which equals 3999. Larger values traditionally use a vinculum (a bar above a letter to multiply by 1000).