Roman numeral converter
Convert 2026 ↔ MMXXVI, 49 ↔ XLIX, and understand subtractive notation (IV = 4, not IIII). Useful for outlines, clock faces, book chapters, Super Bowl labels, and education. Standard forms follow modern conventions up to 3999 (MMMCMXCIX).
Value
Supports numbers from 1 to 3999.
Result
MMXXVI
How to convert Roman numerals
1. Enter an Arabic number (1–3999) or a Roman string (I, V, X, L, C, D, M).
2. Read the converted form in the other notation.
3. Verify subtractive pairs: I before V or X; X before L or C; C before D or M.
4. Copy for headings, tattoo drafts, or quiz answers.
Roman numeral examples
Year dates
2026 = MMXXVI. 1999 = MCMXCIX (not MIM — subtractive form is standard).
Chapter IV
4 = IV. 6 = VI. Order matters: IV is 4; VI is 6; IL is invalid for 49 (use XLIX).
Super Bowl style
Super Bowl 60 = LX. League uses Roman numerals for branding; L=X, X=10.
When to use Roman numerals
• When you format document outlines or legal sub-clauses (Article IV).
• When you decode clock faces or monument inscriptions.
• When you teach or practice numeral system rules in school.
When to choose something else
• When you need numbers above 3999 — standard notation lacks a universal extension without overlines.
• When you need arithmetic — use Arabic numbers for calculation.
• When you need Unicode Roman fractions — specialized characters outside basic tool scope.
Reading Roman dates on buildings
Cornerstones show MCMXL for 1940. Work right-to-left in place-value groups: M=1000, CM=900, XL=40. Practice with birth years and movie copyright lines in credits.
Common student errors
Writing 90 as LXXXX instead of XC, or 400 as CCCC instead of CD. Only one subtractive pair per position. Validate output against known tables when grading homework.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Roman numeral symbols?
I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, M=1000.
What is subtractive notation?
A smaller symbol before a larger one subtracts: IV=4, IX=9, XL=40, XC=90, CD=400, CM=900.
Is IIII valid for 4?
On some clocks IIII appears for symmetry; modern standard is IV.
How do you write 0?
Romans had no zero symbol; leave blank or use N in medieval contexts — not classical.
Can you repeat any symbol?
I, X, C, M repeat up to 3 times. V, L, D are not repeated for addition.
Is data uploaded?
No. Conversion runs locally.