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Kordu Tools
Math & Numbers Runs in browser Updated 30 Mar 2026

Roman Numeral Converter

Convert numbers to Roman numerals and back instantly. Supports 1–3999, batch conversion, year mode, and a subtractive notation reference table.

Reference Table

DecimalRoman
1I
4IV
5V
9IX
10X
40XL
50L
90XC
100C
400CD
500D
900CM
1000M

Subtractive Notation Rules

Roman numerals normally add values left to right (e.g. VIII = 8). When a smaller-value numeral appears before a larger one, it is subtracted instead. Only specific pairs are allowed:

  • IV = 4  IX = 9(I before V or X)
  • XL = 40  XC = 90(X before L or C)
  • CD = 400  CM = 900(C before D or M)

No numeral may repeat more than three times consecutively (e.g. III is valid, IIII is not — use IV instead).

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How to use Roman Numeral Converter

  1. Choose conversion direction

    Select 'Number to Roman' to convert a decimal number, or 'Roman to Number' to decode a Roman numeral string.

  2. Enter your value

    Type a number from 1 to 3999, or type a Roman numeral string. The result appears instantly.

  3. Use year mode

    Switch to Year mode for quick date and anniversary conversions — commonly used for tattoos, clocks, and event commemorations.

  4. Try batch conversion

    Paste a list of values in Batch mode to convert multiple numbers or Roman numerals at once.

  5. Copy the result

    Click the copy button to send the converted value to your clipboard.

Roman Numeral Converter FAQ

What are the Roman numeral symbols?

I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, M=1000. Symbols are combined left to right, generally from largest to smallest.

What is subtractive notation in Roman numerals?

When a smaller symbol precedes a larger one, it means subtraction. The six subtractive pairs: IV=4, IX=9, XL=40, XC=90, CD=400, CM=900.

What is 2024 in Roman numerals?

MMXXIV. M=1000, M=1000, XX=20, IV=4. So 2024 = MM + XX + IV = MMXXIV.

What is the range of Roman numerals?

Standard Roman numerals cover 1 to 3999 (MMMCMXCIX). Values outside this range cannot be represented in classic notation.

Why are Roman numerals used today?

Roman numerals appear on clock faces, movie sequel titles, Super Bowl numbers, book chapters, copyright years, monuments, and tattoos for dates.

What is 1999 in Roman numerals?

MCMXCIX. M=1000, CM=900, XC=90, IX=9. So 1999 = M+CM+XC+IX = MCMXCIX.

Is IIII or IV correct for 4?

Both are valid historically. Standard modern usage prefers IV. Some clocks use IIII for symmetry. This tool uses the standard IV form.

Can I convert a list of years at once?

Yes. Use Batch mode and paste your list of numbers, one per line, to convert them all simultaneously.

How do I read a Roman numeral?

Read from left to right. Add each symbol value to the total, except when a smaller symbol precedes a larger one — then subtract the smaller value.

Is any data sent to a server?

No. All conversions run entirely in your browser. Nothing is uploaded or stored.

Background

Convert any integer between 1 and 3999 to its Roman numeral equivalent, or convert any Roman numeral string back to a decimal value — instantly in both directions. Year mode is optimized for the popular use case of converting birth years, anniversaries, and historical dates to Roman numerals — popular for tattoos, clocks, and commemorative items. Batch mode converts entire lists at once, useful for generating Roman numeral sequences. A built-in reference table explains all seven symbols (I, V, X, L, C, D, M) and the six subtractive pairs with examples. Input validation catches invalid Roman numeral strings and highlights errors. Copy the result in one click. All processing runs in your browser with no server calls or account required.