Free Roman numeral converter — numbers ↔ Roman numerals, both ways

Standard Roman numerals run from I (1) to MMMCMXCIX (3999). Converted entirely in your browser.

🏛️ Roman Numeral Converter — Free Online Tool

Convert numbers to Roman numerals and back, free. Roman numerals represent numbers with seven letters — I, V, X, L, C, D and M — combined by additive and subtractive rules. This converter turns Arabic numbers (1–3999) into standard Roman numerals and decodes numerals back into numbers, entirely in your browser.

🚀 Why use this Roman Numeral Converter tool?

It converts both directions using the standard subtractive notation (so 4 = IV, 9 = IX, 40 = XL), covering the classic 1–3999 range. 100% free, no registration, and complete privacy — everything runs locally in your browser, so your data never touches a server.

Key Features

🔁Both directions

Enter a number to get its Roman numeral, or a numeral to get the number — instantly.

📜Standard notation

Uses the conventional subtractive rules (IV, IX, XL, XC, CD, CM) so output matches accepted form.

🔒100% private

Conversion runs locally in your browser; nothing you enter is uploaded or stored.

🆓Free, no signup

Unlimited conversions with no account, on desktop and mobile.

Popular Use Cases

Writing & design

  • Number book chapters/acts
  • Clock & monument styling
  • Outline numbering

Education

  • Teach Roman numerals
  • Check homework
  • Practice conversions

Dates & branding

  • Copyright/movie years
  • Event editions (Super Bowl)
  • Decode an inscription

What It Handles

Converts

  • Number → numeral
  • Numeral → number
  • Range 1–3999

Rules

  • Additive (VI = 6)
  • Subtractive (IV = 4)
  • Validated input

Workflow

  • Live as-you-type
  • Copy result
  • Runs offline

Sources & References

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Roman numerals work?

Seven letters have values: I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, M=1000. You add values left to right, except when a smaller value precedes a larger one (subtractive), e.g. IV=4, IX=9, XL=40, CM=900.

Why is the maximum 3999?

Standard Roman numerals have no symbol above M (1000), so the largest value writable with the usual letters is MMMCMXCIX = 3999. Larger numbers historically used a bar (vinculum) to multiply by 1000, which isn't part of the basic system.

Is there a Roman numeral for zero?

No. The Roman system has no symbol for zero — the concept of zero as a number entered Western mathematics much later. Conversions therefore start at 1.

What are the subtractive pairs?

Only six: IV (4), IX (9), XL (40), XC (90), CD (400), CM (900). A smaller symbol is placed before a larger one to subtract; other combinations are written additively.

Is my input uploaded anywhere?

No. The conversion happens entirely in your browser; nothing you enter leaves your device.

🎓 Pro Tips

  • Tip 1: Remember the six subtractive pairs (IV, IX, XL, XC, CD, CM) — every standard numeral is built from these plus straightforward addition.
  • Tip 2: You never repeat V, L, or D, and never repeat any symbol more than three times in a row (4 is IV, not IIII) in standard notation.
  • Tip 3: The 1–3999 limit reflects the classic letter set; values above use a vinculum (overbar) not covered by the basic numerals.