The Roman numeral "DXCVII" represents the number 597. In this numeral, "D" stands for 500, "XC" represents 90 (100 minus 10), and "VII" signifies 7. When combined, these values add up to 597. Roman numerals are a numeral system originating from ancient Rome. They use combinations of letters from the Latin alphabet, including I, V, X, L, C, D, and M, to signify values. This system was widely used throughout the Roman Empire and is still seen today in various contexts, such as clock faces and book chapters.