Roman Numeral Converter
Convert any number to Roman numerals or a Roman numeral back to a number, see how it’s built, check it’s written correctly, and turn dates into Roman numerals.
Free · No sign-upHow to use Roman Numeral Converter
- 1. Type a number like 1994 or a Roman numeral like MCMXCIV — the converter works out which one you entered.
- 2. Read the result with its breakdown (M + CM + XC + IV = 1000 + 900 + 90 + 4) and a check that the numeral is written in standard form.
- 3. For numbers of 4,000 and above, tick Allow large numbers to use the overline notation (a bar multiplies by 1,000).
- 4. Switch to Date in Roman numerals to convert a birthday or wedding date in US or day-first order, then copy it or share a link.
Frequently asked questions
How do you write 2026 in Roman numerals?
2026 is MMXXVI: MM (2000) + XX (20) + VI (6). This year’s number, like any from 1 to 3,999, can be typed into the converter to see the breakdown.
How do Roman numerals work?
Seven letters stand for values: I = 1, V = 5, X = 10, L = 50, C = 100, D = 500, M = 1,000. You add them from largest to smallest, except that a smaller numeral in front of a larger one is subtracted in six pairs: IV (4), IX (9), XL (40), XC (90), CD (400) and CM (900).
Why is 4 written IV and not IIII?
Standard form repeats I, X, C and M at most three times, so 4 is IV and 9 is IX. IIII is still used on many clock faces for looks. The converter reads IIII as 4 but tells you the standard form.
What is the largest Roman numeral?
With plain letters the largest is 3,999 (MMMCMXCIX). Romans wrote bigger numbers with a bar (vinculum) over letters to multiply by 1,000, so V̅ = 5,000 and M̅ = 1,000,000; this converter writes numbers up to 3,999,999 that way.
Is there a zero in Roman numerals?
No. The Roman system had no symbol for zero; medieval writers used the word nulla or the letter N. Negative numbers and fractions also can’t be written in standard Roman numerals.
How do I write a date in Roman numerals for a tattoo?
Convert the month, day and year separately and join them with dots: December 25, 2020 is XII.XXV.MMXX in US order, or XXV.XII.MMXX day-first. Use the Date tab to choose the order and separator, and double-check before it’s inked.