Roman Numeral Converter
Type a number or a Roman numeral — it works out which you meant and converts as you type. Every answer is broken into the parts that make it up, and a numeral that is not quite right is explained rather than refused.
1,994
How to use the converter
- Type a number, such as 2026, to get the numeral.
- Or type a numeral, such as MMXXVI, to get the number. There is no button to press and nothing to switch.
- Read the breakdown under the answer to see which part is worth what: M + CM + XC + IV adds up to 1994.
- Past 3,999 a bar over a letter multiplies it by a thousand, so 4,000 is IV with both letters barred.
The seven letters
| Letter | Value |
|---|---|
| I | 1 |
| V | 5 |
| X | 10 |
| L | 50 |
| C | 100 |
| D | 500 |
| M | 1,000 |
Frequently asked questions
How do I write a number in Roman numerals?
Take the largest value that fits and subtract it, then repeat: 1994 is M (1000), then CM (900), then XC (90), then IV (4). The seven letters are I for 1, V for 5, X for 10, L for 50, C for 100, D for 500 and M for 1,000.
Why is 4 written IV and not IIII?
Both are real. IV is the standard form, where a smaller letter before a larger one is subtracted. IIII is the older additive spelling and is still used on clock faces. This converter reads IIII and tells you the standard form rather than calling it wrong.
Which letters can be subtracted?
Only six pairs: CM for 900, CD for 400, XC for 90, XL for 40, IX for 9 and IV for 4. That is why IC is not 99 — 99 is XCIX.
What is the largest Roman numeral?
Without bars, 3,999 is the largest, written MMMCMXCIX. A bar over a letter multiplies it by a thousand, which takes the system to 3,999,999. This converter handles both.
Is there a Roman numeral for zero?
No. The system has no zero and no negative numbers, and no way to write a fraction of one. It counts things rather than measures them.
What year is it in Roman numerals?
2026 is MMXXVI: two thousands, two tens and a six written VI. The chart lists every year from 1900 to 2100.
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