How are Roman numerals written?

They use seven letters: I (1), V (5), X (10), L (50), C (100), D (500) and M (1000). Letters add up left to right, except when a smaller letter sits before a larger one, where it subtracts: IV is 4 and IX is 9. So 2026 is MMXXVI and 1994 is MCMXCIV.

Why is the limit 3999?

Standard Roman numerals only go up to 3999 (MMMCMXCIX) because there is no single letter for 5000 or more. Larger numbers historically used an overline to multiply a letter by a thousand, which plain text cannot show, so most converters, including this one, stop at 3999.

Is there a Roman numeral for zero?

No. The Roman system has no symbol for zero and no way to write negative numbers, since it was built for counting rather than for the kind of arithmetic that needs a zero. That is why the converter starts at 1.

Roman Numeral Converter

Convert numbers to Roman numerals and Roman numerals back to numbers, with validation. Covers 1 to 3999. Type a number like 2026 to get MMXXVI, or paste a numeral to read its value. A free Roman numeral converter in your browser.

Exact, standard factors
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Read the guide: How to Write Roman Numerals

Number → Roman

Number (1–3999)

Roman numeral

MMXXVI

Roman numerals cover 1 to 3999. There is no symbol for zero or negative numbers, and 4000 and above need an overline notation that plain text cannot show.

How to use it

1
Enter a value

Type a number from 1 to 3999, or switch direction and paste a Roman numeral.
2
Read the result

The converted value appears instantly. Invalid numbers and numerals are flagged.
3
Copy it

Copy the result with one click, ready to use in a date, title or tattoo design.

When it comes in handy

Dates and years

Write a year as a Roman numeral for a clock, a monument, a film credit or a copyright line.

Tattoos and gifts

Turn a meaningful date or number into Roman numerals, then check it reads correctly both ways.

Reading numerals

Decode a Roman numeral you have seen on a building, a book or a watch face.

Instant, exact & 100% in your browser

The conversion runs right here in your browser using exact, standard factors. Nothing you type is sent to a server, there is no sign-up and no limit, and once the page has loaded it keeps working even with no connection.

Frequently asked questions

How are Roman numerals written?: They use seven letters: I (1), V (5), X (10), L (50), C (100), D (500) and M (1000). Letters add up left to right, except when a smaller letter sits before a larger one, where it subtracts: IV is 4 and IX is 9. So 2026 is MMXXVI and 1994 is MCMXCIV.
Why is the limit 3999?: Standard Roman numerals only go up to 3999 (MMMCMXCIX) because there is no single letter for 5000 or more. Larger numbers historically used an overline to multiply a letter by a thousand, which plain text cannot show, so most converters, including this one, stop at 3999.
Is there a Roman numeral for zero?: No. The Roman system has no symbol for zero and no way to write negative numbers, since it was built for counting rather than for the kind of arithmetic that needs a zero. That is why the converter starts at 1.