Roman Numeral Converter
Convert between Arabic numbers (1-3999) and Roman numerals instantly
Arabic to Roman
IVRoman to Arabic
How to Use the Roman Numeral Converter
Arabic to Roman
- Enter any number from 1 to 3999
- Click "Convert" or press Enter
- Copy the Roman numeral result instantly
- View conversion in history for reference
Roman to Arabic
- Enter any valid Roman numeral (I, V, X, L, C, D, M)
- Letters are automatically converted to uppercase
- Get instant Arabic number result
- Error checking for invalid formats
Understanding Roman Numerals
Basic Symbols
Addition Rule
When symbols are in descending order, add their values together.
Subtraction Rule
When a smaller symbol appears before a larger one, subtract it.
When to Use Roman Numerals
Historical Documents
Convert dates for historical research, academic papers, and archaeological documentation.
Movie & Book Dates
Convert release years and publication dates commonly displayed in Roman numerals.
Formal Documents
Use in certificates, diplomas, legal documents, and official correspondence for a traditional look.
Clock Faces
Convert numbers for traditional clock designs and timepieces with Roman numeral markers.
Chapter Numbering
Number chapters, sections, and volumes in books, thesis, and academic publications.
Educational Projects
Learn and teach Roman numeral system for math, history, and cultural education.
Common Number Conversions
Years & Dates
Common Numbers
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I convert Arabic numbers to Roman numerals?
Simply enter an Arabic number (1-3999) in the input field and click "Convert". Our tool will instantly display the corresponding Roman numeral with proper formatting.
What is the range of numbers I can convert?
Our Roman numeral converter supports numbers from 1 to 3999. This covers the traditional Roman numeral system used in historical contexts and modern applications.
Can I convert Roman numerals back to Arabic numbers?
Yes! Our converter works bidirectionally. Enter any valid Roman numeral (like MMXXIV) and it will convert it to the corresponding Arabic number (2024).
Are Roman numerals still used today?
Yes, Roman numerals are still commonly used for dates (especially in movies and books), clock faces, chapter numbering, numbered lists, and formal documents like contracts and certificates.
What are the basic Roman numeral symbols?
The seven basic Roman symbols are: I (1), V (5), X (10), L (50), C (100), D (500), and M (1000). All other numbers are formed by combining these symbols using addition and subtraction rules.
How do subtraction rules work in Roman numerals?
When a smaller numeral appears before a larger one, it means subtraction. For example: IV (4 = 5-1), IX (9 = 10-1), XL (40 = 50-10), XC (90 = 100-10), CD (400 = 500-100), CM (900 = 1000-100).
Can I use this tool for historical date conversion?
Absolutely! Our Roman numeral converter is perfect for converting historical dates, birth years, movie release dates, and any other dates you need in Roman numeral format.
Is the Roman numeral converter free to use?
Yes! Our Roman numeral converter is completely free with no registration required. You can convert unlimited numbers with full access to all features.
Why is there no Roman numeral for zero?
The Roman numeral system was developed for counting and commerce, not mathematics. Ancient Romans did not have a concept of zero as a number. They used the word "nulla" (meaning "none") to represent nothing, but never developed a symbol for it.
What happens if I enter a number larger than 3999?
Numbers above 3999 require special notation using bars or other symbols that were not part of the classical Roman system. Our converter supports the traditional range (1-3999) which covers most practical uses including all years from 1 AD to 3999 AD.
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