The Seven Basic Symbols
- I = 1
- V = 5
- X = 10
- L = 50
- C = 100
- D = 500
- M = 1000
The Rules of Subtraction
Romans didn't like having four of the same symbol in a row. Instead of IIII, they used IV (1 before 5).
- IV = 4
- IX = 9
- XC = 90
- CM = 900
Modern Uses
We still use them for:
- Years (copyright dates on movies)
- Monarchs (Queen Elizabeth II)
- Clock faces
- Page numbers in book prefaces
Key Takeaways
- Symbols are generally added (LX = 60)
- A smaller symbol before a larger one is subtracted
- There is no zero in Roman numerals!