Mayan Numbers
Convert between decimal and Mayan vigesimal (base-20) number system with dots, bars, and shells.
Mayan Numeral Symbols
Dot = 1
Bar = 5
Shell = 0
Examples
How Mayan Numbers Work
- • Base 20 (vigesimal) number system
- • Written vertically - highest place at top
- • Place values: 1, 20, 400 (20²), 8000 (20³)...
- • Each place can be 0-19 using dots (1s) and bars (5s)
What are Mayan Numbers?
The Maya civilization developed one of the most sophisticated number systems in the ancient world. Using only three symbols - a dot (1), a bar (5), and a shell-like symbol (0) - they could represent any number in their vigesimal (base-20) positional system.
The Symbols
- Dot (●): Represents 1
- Bar (▬): Represents 5
- Shell (⊛): Represents 0 (the Maya invented zero independently!)
How the System Works
Single Digits (0-19)
Numbers 1-19 are represented using combinations of dots and bars:
- 1-4: One to four dots
- 5: One bar
- 6-9: One bar plus one to four dots
- 10: Two bars
- 15: Three bars
- 19: Three bars plus four dots
Place Values
Like our decimal system, Mayan numbers use place values, but in base 20:
- Bottom position: ×1
- Second position: ×20
- Third position: ×400
- Fourth position: ×8000
Mayan Numbers in Geocaching
These numbers appear in puzzles because:
- Visual appeal: The symbols make interesting puzzle graphics
- Historical theme: Archaeology and ancient civilization caches
- Base-20: Different way of thinking about numbers
- The zero: The Maya's invention of zero is historically significant
Historical Significance
The Maya were one of only a few cultures to independently discover the concept of zero. Their mathematics was used for astronomical calculations, calendar systems, and architecture. The Long Count calendar used this number system to track dates over thousands of years.
Related Topics
- Roman Numerals: Another ancient number system.
- Base Conversion: Converting between number bases.
- Babylonian Numbers: Another ancient positional system.