Robert Pattinson, the teenage heartthrob popularized by the Twilight film series and star of the new romantic drama Remember Me, opening March 12, was browsing through the eclectic inventory of Norman's Rare Guitars in Tarzana, CA, and couldn’t resist picking up a brand new Fender Telecaster and started to play. As a very talented musician and easily recognizable celebrity, it wasn't long before store owner Norman Harris noticed Pattinson. Harris, whose store routinely attracts movie stars and Hollywood power brokers alike, struck up a casual conversation with young Pattinson when the thought occurred that this was an opportunity too good to pass up.

Robert Pattinson at Norman's Rare Guitars with Fender Telecaster

Harris has, for many years, worked very closely with The Midnight Mission, a charitable organization that provides basic necessities to the homeless, including counseling, education, training and job placement across the greater Los Angeles basin. The high-end clientele of the vintage guitar store allows Harris access to some of the most popular celebrities in town, including Tom Petty, Richie Sambora, Jackson Browne, Los Lobos and REO Speed Wagon -- all of whom have played in charity concerts coordinated by Harris on behalf of The Midnight Mission. Harris knew Pattinson was one of the brightest stars of the new decade, and couldn't resist the temptation to ask for an autograph -- not for any personal collection, of course, but to be auctioned off for the benefit of the charity.

Fans that have followed Robert Pattinson for any length of time know of the actor’s reluctance to be photographed or sign autographs. Pattinson’s reputation isn't that of a snob but rather a professional who’s a little bit shy and timid, and more than just a little bit private. But, music hath charms to soothe the savage beast, and playing music that day in Norman's Rare Guitars seems to have brought out the very best and most compassionate in Pattinson. Not only did the star sign the guitar, the shy persona took a picture with it -- simultaneously verifying its authenticity while multiplying its value by at least a factor of 10.

Pattinson autographed the Fender guitar back in December 2009 and the charity had briefly listed it for auction on eBay, but knowing Pattinson was working on a film that would be released soon, The Midnight Mission waited for the opportune time to place the guitar on Ebay in order to raise the most money possible. The charity relies solely on private funding and not on government support to provide the critical and life changing services to LA's homeless.

The timing couldn't be more perfect; the auction now coincides with the opening day of Pattinson's new movie, Remember Me. Look for both the movie and the auction to open Friday, March 12.