Roman numerals

Roman numerals, system of numerical representation based on symbols invented by the ancient Romans c.500 B.C. The early Roman system—with some modification—was commonly used for simple calculations as late as the 16th century, when it was eclipsed by the Arabic system. It is used today primarily for notational and decorative purposes, and to record dates. In the Roman system, the symbols I, V, X, L, C, D, and M stand for the numbers 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000, respectively.

See also: Numeration systems.